Iraq (Washington Insider Magazine) – At least five United States personnel were injured in an attack against a military base in Iraq, US officials have said, amid rising tensions following last week’s killing of senior members of Hamas and Hezbollah.
Two Iraqi security sources confirmed that the missiles struck inside the base US officials, speaking anonymously to Reuters, reported that one American was seriously injured. The Associated Press, citing US defense officials, mentioned that up to seven military personnel and civilians were wounded. A post-attack damage assessment is currently being conducted by base personnel.
Iraq Condemns the Attack
In response to the attack, Iraq condemned all reckless actions targeting Iraqi bases, diplomatic missions, and US-led coalition outposts. The White House has briefed both the president and vice president on the incident.
According to Aljazeera, the attack follows the assassination of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week, an incident that has heightened tensions in the region. Iran has blamed Israel for Haniyeh’s killing, though Israel has not claimed responsibility. Additionally, an Israeli strike in Beirut last week resulted in the death of Fuad Shukir, a senior Hezbollah commander.
US Military Response and Deployment
In anticipation of retaliatory threats, the US has deployed additional military forces to the Middle East. US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin and Israeli Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant described the attack as a “dangerous escalation” during a call on Monday. The US previously carried out a strike in Iraq against individuals deemed militants preparing to launch drones.
The nearly 10-month-old conflict between Israel and Hamas has led to ongoing hostilities involving Iran, Hezbollah, and other groups aligned with Tehran. While neither side appears ready for full-scale war, the risk of a larger conflict remains high. Iraq, a rare ally to both the US and Iran, continues to host 2,500 US soldiers and has witnessed increasing tit-for-tat attacks since the Gaza war began in October.