U.S.-Saudi attack on iraqi militias risks drawing them into war

U.S.-Saudi airstrikes on the bases of Iraqi militias have raised concerns over the potential for escalating conflict in the region. The strikes targeted sites linked to the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), which are part of Iraq’s security apparatus but include Iran-aligned groups. These developments are part of the broader U.S.-Iran war and suggest further regional spillover. The attacks were reportedly in retaliation for drone strikes against U.S. forces and Saudi infrastructure, attributed to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard. This represents a significant widening of conflict dynamics, with Saudi Arabia publicly acknowledging its participation in strikes inside Iraq for the first time since the war began. Key Takeaways Market pricing suggests increased expectations of Iran taking military action against a Gulf state, with a notable rise in YES pricing on the July 30 market. The escalation in U.S.-Saudi military actions appears to be seen by market participants as consistent with scenarios where Iran might retaliate, increasing regional tensions. The current geopolitical situation, including Saudi Arabia’s active military role, suggests a broader regional conflict could be emerging, ...