NewsKPBS Public MediaJuly 29, 2026United States
Escalating Conflict in the Middle East: Missile Strikes and Oil Market Impacts
Iran launched missiles at U.S. forces in Jordan, while U.S. and Saudi forces conducted retaliatory airstrikes against militias in Iraq, resulting in at least 20 deaths. These events have disrupted global energy supplies, caused oil prices to rise, and led to the indefinite postponement of diplomatic meetings between Iraq and Saudi Arabia.
Read the full story at KPBS Public MediaWhy It Matters
The conflict has caused the price of oil to rise by 3.1% to $84.58 per barrel and threatens to further destabilize global energy supply chains.
Key Facts
- Iran launched ballistic missiles at the Muwaffaq Salti Air Base and U.S. Central Command headquarters in Jordan.
- Jordan's military intercepted and destroyed five Iranian missiles with no reported casualties or damage.
- U.S. and Saudi fighter aircraft struck logistics and weapons sites in eastern Iraq.
- The Popular Mobilization Forces reported 20 fighters killed and 32 wounded in the U.S.-Saudi strikes.
- Brent crude oil prices increased 3.1% to $84.58 per barrel following the hostilities.
- Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi postponed a scheduled visit to Saudi Arabia indefinitely.
- A Saudi oil refinery in Jazan shut down due to damage from a Houthi attack, with repairs expected by Aug. 15.
- The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to shipping due to Iranian attacks.
- Houthi rebels declared a blockade of Saudi shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb strait.
- Satellite imagery confirmed damage to the Abqaiq oil processing facility.
Who's Mentioned
otherIran“Nation state involved in missile launches and regional conflict.”personNizar Amidi“President of Iraq.”locationJazan“Site of an oil refinery that temporarily shut down.”otherSaudi Arabia“Nation state partnering with the U.S. in airstrikes and managing oil facilities.”otherIraq“Nation state where airstrikes occurred and diplomatic meetings were postponed.”personAli al-Zaidi“Prime Minister of Iraq.”personKazem Gharibabadi“Iran's deputy foreign minister.”locationAbqaiq“Saudi oil processing facility damaged by drone attacks.”locationMuwaffaq Salti Air Base“Target of Iranian ballistic missiles in Jordan.”otherUnited States“Nation state involved in military strikes and base defense.”organizationHouthi rebels“Group in Yemen conducting attacks on Saudi energy facilities.”organizationPopular Mobilization Forces“Coalition of Shiite armed groups targeted in airstrikes.”