Latest news in Iraq? September 12th, 2026

Here are the major developments in Iraq for September 12, 2026:

• Dismissal of Maysan Military Leadership: Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi ordered the immediate removal of the commander of the Maysan Operations Command and formed an investigative council. This followed official confirmation that drone strikes targeting Saudi Arabia’s strategic East-West pipeline were launched from within Maysan province. Saudi Gazette+ 1
• Border Closures with Iran: Baghdad ordered the precautionary closure of southern border crossings with Iran, including the Shalamcheh and Chazabeh checkpoints, halting passenger and commercial transit as security forces opened operations to track those responsible. KTVN
• Diplomatic Coordination with Riyadh: The Iraqi government condemned the drone attacks, stating it will not permit Iraqi territory or airspace to serve as a launchpad against neighboring nations. Riyadh agreed to pause retaliatory measures to give Baghdad room to pursue the investigation and contain regional escalations. Saudi Gazette
• Defense and Coalition Transition: Government military spokespersons reaffirmed preparations for the formal conclusion of the US-led coalition mission scheduled for September 30, 2026, alongside accelerated procurement of modern air-defense batteries from international partners. The National News