US and Saudi Forces Strike Pro-Iranian Militias in Iraq After Iran Fires Missiles at Jordan

The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced early Wednesday that it, alongside the Saudi military, conducted strikes against pro-Iranian militia targets in eastern Iraq. This operation was a response to over 30 drone attacks within the past 72 hours targeting US forces and Saudi energy infrastructure. Earlier the same day, the US military reported that Iran's Revolutionary Guards launched several ballistic missiles toward a US base in Jordan, all of which were successfully intercepted. The Revolutionary Guards also confirmed attacking three oil tankers in a restricted area near the Strait of Hormuz, though damage assessments remain unclear.

In related developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shared new intelligence on the Mount Hermon area with US President Donald Trump during their recent meeting. Israeli officials noted a significant Iranian recovery process aided by foreign countries, with full details to be presented to the US soon. A US official acknowledged awareness of the issue based on internal intelligence.

President Trump, in a Fox News interview, downplayed the Mount Hermon situation, stating Netanyahu's concerns stem from a desire to stay involved. Trump emphasized his knowledge of Iran's activities and expressed reluctance to attack Iranian infrastructure due to the potential impact on 90 million Iranian civilians. He warned Iran against breaking agreements and asserted US control over the Strait of Hormuz despite Iranian mine-laying efforts.

Earlier reports from the New York Times revealed that Trump halted plans for a major escalation against Iran after receiving briefings highlighting potential escalation risks and a critical shortage of Patriot missile interceptors. Israeli defense sources expressed concern that the US has depleted much of its interceptor missile stockpile, with only about 51% of Patriot missiles, 66% of THAAD interceptors, and 20% of SM sea-based missiles remaining. Meanwhile, Israel has reportedly tripled production of its Arrow 3 interceptors, although official statements on local stock levels have not been made.