5 U.S. soldiers injured in attack on base in Iraq
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Several American soldiers were injured late on Monday in a rocket attack on a base housing U.S. troops in the western desert of Iraq.
U.S. officials told Reuters at least five U.S. personnel were injured in the attack against the Ain Al-Asad airbase.
On July 30, the U.S. launched an attack in Iraq targeting individuals identified by U.S. officials as militants allegedly preparing to attack with drones and were considered a threat to U.S. and coalition forces.
U.S. officials, speaking to Reuters under the condition of anonymity, said that one of the injured Americans is in serious condition. They noted that the number of casualties could change.
Two Katyusha rockets were launched at the airbase, according to two Iraqi security sources.
One source indicated that the rockets landed inside the base.
“Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment,” one of the officials added.
The attack on Monday night was similar to earlier attacks by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, which have targeted the base frequently since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in October 2023.
The attack came as tension surges in the region after the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of Hamas, in Tehran.
Iran threatened to avenge against Israel, whom they blame for Haniyeh’s killing. Israel has not taken responsibility for the killing.
This incident, along with the assassination of Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr by an Israeli strike in Beirut, has raised concerns about the conflict in Gaza escalating into a broader Middle East war.
Iran also criticized the U.S. for supporting Israel, claiming it bears responsibility for Haniyeh’s assassination.