Tensions flared in Baghdad on Tuesday night as an explosion targeted a site used by the U.S. military at the city’s international airport. The incident occurred just hours before Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was scheduled to arrive for his first official trip abroad since assuming office. While the exact nature of the explosion remains unclear, Iraqi security officials confirmed the incident, stating that it happened around 11 p.m. in an area used by advisors to the U.S.-led international coalition.
Despite the incident, civilian air traffic continued as normal, and there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. A spokesperson for the Iraqi security media cell noted that the incident was under investigation and that no group had claimed responsibility. A U.S. official did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
According to an Iraqi security official at the airport, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, two loud strikes were heard in the area where officials were preparing for Pezeshkian’s arrival. The strikes reportedly targeted a logistics support site for the U.S.-led coalition.
Over the past year, Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have launched attacks on bases housing U.S. forces in Iraq, claiming these strikes were in retaliation for U.S. support of Israel in the recent conflict in Gaza. One such militia, Kataib Hezbollah, appeared to distance itself from the Tuesday night incident. Jaafar al-Husseini, the group’s spokesperson, released a statement suggesting that the attack was carried out by unknown actors with the intention of disrupting the Iranian president’s visit.
The incident raises concerns about the potential for further escalation of tensions in the region, particularly in light of the upcoming visit by the Iranian president. It remains to be seen how this incident will affect the visit or the broader security situation in Iraq.
