Iraq launches probe into drone strikes on Saudi oil facilities

Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi has initiated a formal inquiry into drone strikes targeting Saudi Arabian facilities, removing the operations commander in Maysan province as part of a broader crackdown on unauthorized military activities. The moves signal Baghdad's attempt to reassert control over armed groups operating along its eastern border with Iran.

The investigation focuses on operations command in Maysan, a province bordering Iran that has served as a base for various militia factions. The dismissal of the commander marks an escalation in al-Zaidi's efforts to consolidate state authority and prevent Iraq from becoming a launching point for attacks on neighboring countries.

In a related measure, Iraq shut three border crossings with Iran, effectively tightening controls over the porous frontier. The closure appears designed to restrict the movement of weapons and personnel that have historically supplied armed groups operating within Iraqi territory.

The developments underscore mounting pressure on Baghdad from regional and international actors concerned about the activities of Iran-aligned militias. Iraq has faced repeated accusations of failing to prevent such groups from using its territory to target Saudi Arabia and other regional states, straining diplomatic relations and raising concerns about regional stability.