The United States and Saudi Arabia launched a series of precision strikes in eastern Iraq on Tuesday. These strikes targeted militant groups aligned with Iran. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported these groups were directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to attack U.S. forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.

CENTCOM stated that the operation hit several logistics hubs and weapon sites. This action followed a string of unsuccessful drone attacks reportedly orchestrated by the IRGC over the previous 72 hours.

In a further development on Tuesday night, CENTCOM reported that the IRGC launched multiple ballistic missiles from Iran. These missiles aimed to target U.S. bases in the Middle East. According to the command, “All Iranian missiles were successfully intercepted. U.S. forces remain vigilant and at a high state of readiness.”

According to Reuters, the IRGC claimed it launched these missiles at a U.S. air base and CENTCOM facility in Jordan as retaliation for U.S. actions against Iranian interests. Newsweek reached out to CENTCOM via email for more details.

Essential Details

CENTCOM indicated that over 600 attempted attacks on U.S. citizens and facilities were recorded from February to April in Iraq. This seems to highlight the persistent threat posed by IRGC-backed proxy forces in the region.

In their statement, CENTCOM warned the IRGC and its affiliated militias to stop these attacks to avoid further military actions. The strikes illustrate the U.S. and its allies’ readiness to respond militarily to attacks attributed to Iranian-backed groups, even with broader diplomatic efforts involving Tehran ongoing.

Rajan Menon, a professor emeritus of International Relations at City College of New York, mentioned to Newsweek that “There’s nothing in place that qualifies as a ceasefire.” He remarked that neither the U.S.-Saudi strikes nor Iran’s actions should come as a surprise. He suggested that more such incidents might occur.

Trump Hosts Netanyahu at the White House

The military operation happened just hours after President Donald Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House. Iran was a major topic of their discussion.

A White House official told Newsweek that Trump and Netanyahu talked about the ongoing conflict with Iran, the trilateral framework progress in Lebanon, and expanding the Abraham Accords.

Speaking on Fox News’ Sean Hannity show, Netanyahu described his meeting with Trump as “great” and “one of the best.” He emphasized their shared commitment against Tehran’s regime acquiring nuclear weapons. He noted the threat such weapons would pose to America, global peace, and Israel’s existence.

Netanyahu also highlighted Iran’s past aggressions against Middle Eastern neighbors like Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. He expressed concern about the potential actions Iran might take if it possessed nuclear capabilities.

This is a developing story. More information will be provided as it becomes available.