Iraq Uncovers Plot to Launch Shahed-107 Drone Attack on Saudi Arabia

In Iraq, members of a pro-Iranian militant cell were detained for allegedly preparing an attack using Shahed-107 strike drones, reportedly targeting Saudi Arabia.

The arrests were announced by government spokesman Haider al-Abboudi.

According to Iraqi officials, the Counter-Terrorism Service and Iraqi Intelligence Service successfully infiltrated an armed network that possessed drones and was planning attacks against designated targets, ultimately dismantling the network.

Based on the published photos, at least 12 Shahed-107 strike drones were seized from the pro-Iranian militants. The drones are equipped with 15-kilogram warheads and have a range of more than 300 kilometers.

Al-Abboudi stressed that after September 30, the grounds for the presence of armed groups in Iraq will cease to exist. The issue of ensuring that weapons are held exclusively by the state is an internal national matter for Iraq and falls under the government’s jurisdiction.

According to Al Hadath, alongside the government’s efforts to place all weapons under state control, Baghdad is reorganizing the leadership of its security and military institutions. A number of personnel changes have been made in the ministries of interior and defense, as well as in the commands of military divisions and operational units.

At the same time as the Iranian proxy cell members were detained, an Al Arabiya correspondent reported that Iraqi security forces had arrested Ahmed al-Jubouri, a former governor of Salah al-Din province, in Baghdad. Known as Abu Mazen, he is accused of corruption.

Al-Jubouri served as governor of Salah al-Din province from 2013 to 2014. From 2014 to 2015, he also served as Iraq’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs. He currently serves as secretary-general of the National Masses party in Iraq. Al-Jubouri is known for his ties to pro-Iranian political forces and armed groups.

Shortly before his arrest, it was reported that, according to Saudi intelligence, the Yemeni Houthis, Iraqi armed groups, and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) were coordinating preparations for joint attacks against the Kingdom.

The potential attacks are reportedly expected to target civilian and energy facilities, including critical infrastructure, airports, and ports.

Immediately following the report, a spokesperson for the commander-in-chief of the Iraqi Armed Forces announced the implementation of a security plan to prevent a possible attack on Saudi Arabia.

As part of the security measures, the Prime Minister’s Office announced the deployment of military reinforcements toward Baghdad and an increase in the level of combat readiness.