The United States and Saudi Arabia have carried out strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq following a new escalation between Iran and US-aligned forces in the Middle East.

The latest developments followed an Iranian missile attack targeting a US military base in Jordan. The US military said the missiles were intercepted and that the attack caused no casualties at the base.

After the missile attack, the United States and Saudi Arabia launched strikes against positions linked to Iran-backed groups in Iraq. Reports said the operation killed at least 20 members of Iran-backed armed groups, including factions associated with the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF).

The PMF condemned the strikes, calling them a dangerous escalation, while Iraqi officials criticized the military action and said it violated Iraq’s sovereignty. Officials in Baghdad warned that continued attacks could further destabilize Iraq and draw the country deeper into a wider regional confrontation.

Saudi Arabia said the operation was coordinated with the United States and was carried out in response to security threats and attacks targeting Saudi interests.

The strikes represent another escalation in tensions involving Iran, the United States, Iraq and Gulf countries. The developments have increased concerns that further retaliation could expand the conflict across the region.

The situation has also raised concerns over regional security, including the safety of important shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. Any disruption in these areas could have wider effects on international trade and energy markets.

Governments across the Middle East are monitoring the situation closely as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent further escalation.

The situation remains developing, with officials continuing to assess the impact of the strikes and the possibility of additional responses.