Baghdad: A series of rockets and drones were launched toward the United States Embassy Baghdad early Tuesday, according to security sources, marking one of the most serious attacks on the compound since the escalation of the regional conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.
The assault occurred in Baghdad, where rockets and at least five drones were reportedly launched from areas around the capital. Witnesses said several drones were seen flying toward the embassy complex located in the high-security diplomatic district.
Security officials said the embassy’s C-RAM air defence system intercepted at least two of the drones mid-air. However, one drone reportedly managed to strike inside the compound, sparking a fire and sending smoke rising from within the premises.
Residents and witnesses in Baghdad also reported hearing a loud explosion during the attack, raising concerns about further escalation in the already volatile region.
There was no immediate official comment from the US embassy, and attempts by media outlets to contact the mission reportedly went unanswered as its mobile lines were switched off.
The attack comes against the backdrop of rising hostilities in West Asia since the outbreak of war involving the US and Israel against Iran in late February. Several Iran-aligned armed groups operating in Iraq have vowed retaliation against American interests in the region.
Among them is Kataib Hezbollah, which on Monday announced the death of a senior commander and spokesperson. The group claimed the loss occurred following airstrikes near the border town of Al-Qaim.
The Popular Mobilization Forces also reported that at least eight of its fighters were killed in the same strikes.
Following the latest attack, Iraqi authorities deployed additional security personnel across key areas of the capital. The government also temporarily sealed off the heavily fortified Green Zone, which houses government institutions and several foreign embassies.
Security officials are continuing to assess the damage and investigate the source of the attack as tensions across the region remain high.
