US troops stationed at two bases in Iraq came under rocket attacks, with no reported injuries, as confirmed by security sources on Friday. These attacks occurred in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Militant groups associated with Iran had previously issued threats against American interests in Iraq due to perceived US support for Israel. These threats escalated after an attack launched from the Gaza Strip by militants from the Iran-backed Hamas group, which Israeli officials claimed resulted in more than 1,400 casualties on October 7. In response, Israeli reprisal strikes on Gaza reportedly led to over 3,700 casualties, according to the Hamas-controlled health ministry in the Palestinian enclave.
On Thursday night, three Katyusha rockets struck near a base of the international coalition located close to Baghdad International Airport, which includes US troops. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the extent of material damage was under assessment. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for this attack.
Additionally, on Thursday evening, another rocket attack targeted the Ain al-Assad base in western Iraq, where US forces are also stationed. This attack, claimed by a group named “Islamic Resistance in Iraq” on Telegram channels affiliated with Shiite factions loyal to Iran, also resulted in no reported damage.
Earlier in the week, the US military had reported shooting down two drones fired at American forces and the international coalition in western Iraq.
As of the latest available information, the United States maintains approximately 2,500 troops stationed at three bases in Iraq, along with around 1,000 soldiers from other coalition countries. These forces are part of the international coalition formed to combat the Islamic State jihadist group.
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