Iraq closes Al-Tayeb border area with Iran after drone attack suspicions
Iraq has shut the Al-Tayeb border area with Iran after discovering drone launch sites linked to attacks on Saudi Arabia, Reuters reports.
A recent attack on a Saudi Arabian oil pipeline has exposed the growing influence of Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. According to Iraqi officials, the attack originated from Maysan province, prompting the dismissal of a local commander. Iraq has attempted to prevent a potential Saudi retaliation by attributing the attack to the country, which has denied the allegations.
These militias, such as Kataib Hezbollah, have a history of targeting Saudi Arabia, including the killing of three American service members in Jordan in 2024. In addition to Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, Israel, and several Gulf states have been victims of their attacks.
The Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al Zaidi had promised to disarm or place the militias' weapons under state control. However, the militias are attempting to delay action, taking advantage of the imminent departure of US forces from Iraq by September 30 and the withdrawal of US air defenses from key areas, including northern Iraq. This has allowed the militias to consolidate their power and increase their threats.
The US and Saudi Arabia previously conducted strikes on the militias following similar attacks in July. US Central Command stated that the strikes were in response to over 30 drone attacks coordinated by Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) against US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure during a 72-hour period. Despite these efforts, attacks continue, with the recent pipeline attack occurring as the Houthis seized islands in Yemen, threatening the Bab al Mandeb Strait.
The Iraqi government's confirmation of the attack on the pipeline marks a rare admission that its territory was used as a launchpad for an attack on a neighboring country. Iraqi Prime Minister Zaidi has ordered the establishment of an investigative board to identify those responsible, and the removal of the Operations Commander. Saudi Arabia has requested time to address the culprits and is taking a cautious approach towards Yemen.
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