Regional military conflict intensified across the Middle East on Wednesday as Saudi Arabia executed joint airstrikes with the United States in Iraq, while drone attacks struck commercial shipping in Egypt and a Chinese-owned facility in Kuwait.
Washington and Riyadh targeted Iranian-aligned militia logistics and weapons facilities in Iraq following attacks on American troops and Saudi oil installations.
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The strikes killed at least 20 people and injured 32 others, according to the Popular Mobilization Forces.
Iranian state media reported that Tehran's Foreign Ministry condemned the military operation. Newly elected Iraqi President Nizar Amidi termed the bombardments an unacceptable violation of national sovereignty.
Gulf Allies Back Saudi Action
In response to the actions taken by Saudi Arabia, neighboring Gulf allies expressed immediate support for the joint military measures.
"The Ministry reiterated the UAE's full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and its support for all measures aimed at safeguarding its security and stability," stated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates.
The maritime conflict widened into the Mediterranean Sea when a suspected drone strike hit a US-owned vessel during liquefied natural gas cargo operations at Egypt's Damietta port.
Maritime risk-management firm Marisks confirmed the affected ships were repositioned outside the facility, marking the first direct impact on Egyptian infrastructure.
Farther south, a separate Iranian strike hit a structure belonging to a Chinese firm in northern Kuwait, causing structural damage and killing one worker, according to the Kuwaiti army.
