Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps fired multiple ballistic missiles at U.S. forces in the Middle East on Tuesday evening, but all were successfully intercepted, according to U.S. Central Command.
The attack occurred at 5:45 p.m. Eastern time. U.S. Central Command confirmed the interception in official statements, noting that American forces remained on high alert following the incident.
U.S. and Saudi Response
Within hours, U.S. and Saudi fighter aircraft conducted precision strikes across eastern Iraq targeting Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps-directed militant logistics and weapons sites, according to CENTCOM.
The strikes targeted infrastructure believed responsible for more than 30 drone attacks on U.S. positions during the previous 72 hours. Saudi Arabia’s direct military participation marked a significant escalation in regional coordination against Iranian-backed forces.
Pattern of Escalating Attacks
From February through April, Iran-aligned militant groups in Iraq conducted more than 600 attempted attacks on U.S. citizens and facilities, according to U.S. military assessments.
U.S. officials characterized the attacks as part of a coordinated, IRGC-directed campaign rather than isolated incidents. The sustained operation occurred while diplomatic negotiations were underway between the United States and Iran.
Regional Implications
Saudi Arabia’s involvement in the military response signaled Riyadh’s determination to address threats to its energy infrastructure and regional interests.
The joint U.S.-Saudi operation demonstrated an allied military coordination against Iranian proxy activities across the region. Saudi fighter jets flew alongside American aircraft during the strikes, marking direct participation by the kingdom in offensive operations.
This story has been updated. CNN’s International Desk contributed to this report.