BAGHDAD: The Iraqi government has said it had no prior knowledge of the joint US–Saudi airstrikes that targeted Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) positions across the country. Officials also stressed that Baghdad did not authorize the military operation.
Speaking to the state-owned Iraqi News Agency (INA) on Thursday, government spokesperson Haider al-Aboudi rejected claims that Iraq had approved or coordinated the attacks.
Iraq Rejects Claims of Coordination
Al-Aboudi said the government was not informed before the strikes took place.
“The government had no prior knowledge of the attacks carried out on Iraqi territory,” he said.
He also emphasized that Baghdad had not given permission for attacks on any locations or armed groups inside Iraq.
Airstrikes Hit Seven Provinces
According to the Iraqi government, the joint US–Saudi operation targeted seven provinces across Iraq.
Officials said the strikes killed more than 18 PMF members and injured at least 20 others.
The attacks came after recent strikes on Saudi energy infrastructure. Washington and Riyadh blamed armed factions operating inside Iraq for those incidents.
Trump Says Operation Was Coordinated
However, the Iraqi government’s statement contradicts comments made by US President Donald Trump.
In an interview with Fox News on Wednesday, Trump said the overnight military operation had been “coordinated” with the Iraqi leadership.
Baghdad has denied that claim and insists it neither approved nor facilitated the attacks.
Iraq Seeks Evidence From Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, the Islamic Resistance in Iraq denied responsibility for the attacks on Saudi energy facilities. The group also warned that it could respond with retaliatory action.
Al-Aboudi said Iraqi authorities launched an internal investigation into the allegations. However, officials found no evidence linking Iraqi factions to the attacks.
He urged Saudi Arabia to share any intelligence or security information it has so Iraqi authorities can independently verify the claims.
Regional Tensions Continue
The latest developments have added to growing tensions across the Middle East. Iraqi officials continue to call for respect for the country’s sovereignty while seeking more information about the incidents that led to the military operation.
