LONDON: Joint US-Saudi strikes on Iran-backed groups in Iraq on Wednesday exposed the depth of Tehran’s military network inside the country, where militias have evolved from insurgent movements into some of the most powerful political and security actors in the Iraqi state. The operation, which followed more than 30 drone attacks over three days targeting Saudi Arabia’s petroleum infrastructure and US military sites in the region, has reignited debate over whether Baghdad can prevent its territory becoming a launchpad for wider regional conflict.

Iran is activating allied militias in Iraq to launch drones at Saudi Arabia and Kurdistan, while threatening Jordan, Syria, Israel and US forces.

Iran-backed militants in Iraq recently launched over two dozen drone attacks on US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure.

Iran carries out attacks on American base in Jordan

US and Saudi forces conducted strikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq. These attacks followed drone incidents targeting Saudi oil facilities earlier. The Popular Mobilization…