Iraq Base Attack: Pro-Iranian Forces’ Compound Hit in Overnight Bombing

In a significant development, an Iraqi military base housing an alliance of pro-Iranian armed groups came under “bombardment” overnight, injuring several people, according to two security sources. The explosion occurred at the Calso military base in Babylon province, located south of Baghdad, where Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), or Hashed al-Shaabi, are stationed. While an interior ministry source revealed that the “aerial bombing” resulted in one fatality and eight injuries, a military official reported three wounded Iraqi military personnel.

Hashed al-Shaabi acknowledged the incident, citing “material losses” and casualties, although the exact number of wounded individuals remains unspecified. Notably, investigations have been initiated at the affected site. Despite inquiries, security sources refrained from attributing responsibility or confirming whether the attack involved a drone strike. The explosion primarily targeted equipment, weapons, and vehicles, as indicated by the ministry source.

Following the blast, the United States military clarified that its forces were not involved in any airstrike in Iraq on that day, debunking reports suggesting American involvement. Meanwhile, an Iraqi military official disclosed that the explosion occurred in warehouses housing equipment, with efforts ongoing to contain the resulting fire and search for potential casualties.

Amidst heightened tensions, the bombing at the Iraqi military base coincides with escalating regional conflicts, notably the ongoing warfare between Israel and Iran-backed Palestinian militants Hamas. Recent strikes, allegedly orchestrated by Israel, targeted a military installation near Isfahan in central Iran. While Israeli officials refrained from public comments regarding the attacks, Iranian authorities downplayed their significance.