Manama: Saudi Arabia has declared that recent military strikes carried out by its Armed Forces, in collaboration with the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), against specific targets in Iraq, were executed under the right of self-defence as guaranteed by international law.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its stance following two previously issued statements regarding the drone attacks conducted by Iran-backed militias on Saudi territory. The Kingdom expressed its determination to counter these acts and reaffirmed its right to respond. The ministry emphasized that these militias chose a path of escalation at a time when Saudi Arabia was striving to de-escalate regional tensions, thereby violating international law and disregarding the principles of good neighbourliness and Islamic brotherhood.
The strikes, carried out on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, targeted specific locations within Iraq's territory linked to attacks on Saudi petroleum facilities. Saudi Arabia justified these actions as a legitimate exercise of its inherent right to self-defence under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. The Kingdom reiterated its commitment to avoiding escalation but warned that it would take all necessary measures to protect its sovereignty and national assets if further attacks occur.