Archive · 13 Sep 2026
Iraq Approves Joint Probe Into Drone Launch Sites Near Border
Iraq says drones used to attack Saudi Arabia were launched from southern Iraq.
The alleged launch area was in Maysan province, near the border with Iran.
Iran asked Iraq to work together to find the launch sites.
Iraq approved that request.
Iraq also removed two local security commanders from their jobs.
A special group was created to investigate what happened.
Some border crossings were temporarily closed while officials checked security.
Saudi Arabia said the drones damaged its East-West Pipeline and caused injuries.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi approved Iran’s request for a joint investigation near the Iraq-Iran border.
Authorities said recent drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia were launched from Iraq’s Maysan province.
Al-Zaidi dismissed the Maysan Operations Commander and Maysan Police Commander.
Iraq formed a special investigative council and intensified intelligence, security, and audit efforts.
Several border crossings were closed for security reviews, while Zurbatiyah and al-Munthiriya remained open to passengers.
- Who
- Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, Iraqi security authorities, Iran, and Saudi Arabia are involved.
- What
- Iraq approved a joint investigation with Iran into drone launch sites and began broader security reviews.
- When
- The decisions and dismissals were announced on Saturday; Saudi Arabia reported the drone attack on Friday.
- Where
- The alleged launch site was in Maysan province in southern Iraq, near the Iraq-Iran border.
- Why
- The investigation followed confirmation that drones targeting Saudi Arabia were launched from Iraq and amid reported security breaches at border crossings.
- Investigation
- Iraq approved Iran’s request for a joint probe into drone launch platforms near the border.
- Alleged launch location
- Maysan province in southern Iraq.
- Iraqi actions
- The Maysan Operations Commander and Maysan Police Commander were dismissed.
- Border measures
- Several crossings were closed for administrative and security reorganisation and inspections.
- Open crossings
- Zurbatiyah and al-Munthiriya remained open to passenger traffic.
- Reported Saudi damage
- Saudi Arabia said several drones attacked its East-West Pipeline, causing injuries and damage.
- Saudi response
- Saudi Arabia said it refrained from responding at Iraq’s prime minister’s request.