Multiple rockets have targeted two Iraqi military bases hosting US-led coalition troops and foreign contractors but nobody was hurt in the attacks,
Al Jazeera reports.
Iraq’s joint operations command said in a statement on Thursday one attack near a military base next to Baghdad’s airport was spearheaded by three explosives-laden drones, and one of the UAVs was intercepted and destroyed.
Three rockets also hit Balad airbase, north of the capital, on Wednesday without causing any casualties or damage, a military statement said. The base houses foreign military contractors.
Attacks on Iraqi bases, especially those hosting US troops and contractors, have increased since the US assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in Baghdad in January 2020. The Americans usually blame Iran-backed armed groups for targeting US forces and interests in Iraq.
More than a dozen rocket strikes have targeted bases and Baghdad’s highly fortified Green Zone since US President Joe Biden assumed office this year. At least 10 people have been killed, including two foreign contractors.
Balad airbase is used by US company Sallyport to service F-16 fighter jets flown by Iraq’s air force and has repeatedly been hit by rocket fire.
Another US company, Lockheed Martin, withdrew its staff from the base last month amid concerns about the safety of its personnel.
At least three foreign subcontractors and one Iraqi subcontractor have been wounded in attacks on Balad.
