The Islamic Resistance in Iraq denied it carried out drone and missile strikes on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province [1].

The denial follows accusations from Riyadh that the attacks were launched from Iraqi territory. These tensions highlight the fragile security environment and the complex relationship between Saudi Arabia and Iraqi-based militia groups.

Saudi Arabia alleged that the strikes targeted critical energy infrastructure. The Islamic Resistance in Iraq issued its rebuttal on June 30, 2024 [1], the same day the accusations were made public [1].

"We have no involvement in the attacks on Saudi oil facilities and reject the allegations made by Riyadh," a spokesperson for the Islamic Resistance in Iraq said [1].

The group said the denial was necessary to refute claims that Iraqi-based elements were responsible for the strikes. The militia sought to avoid potential diplomatic fallout between Baghdad and Riyadh following the incidents [1].

Saudi officials have previously pointed to Iraqi soil as a launch point for various incursions. This latest dispute centers on the specific use of drones and missiles to target oil production sites in the Eastern Province [1].

While Saudi Arabia maintains its position on the origin of the strikes, the Iraqi militia continues to deny any operational role in the events of June 30, 2024 [1].

“"We have no involvement in the attacks on Saudi oil facilities and reject the allegations made by Riyadh."”

The denial by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq underscores the ongoing friction between Saudi Arabia and non-state actors operating within Iraq. By rejecting the claims, the militia attempts to mitigate the risk of retaliatory strikes or increased diplomatic pressure on the Iraqi government, while Riyadh continues to signal that Iraqi territory remains a security vulnerability for its energy infrastructure.