Rocket attack reported near US embassy in Baghdad

Numerous government and diplomatic buildings, including the US Embassy, are located in Baghdad’s Green Zone region. Media reports, citing security sources, claim that multiple rockets were fired towards this location on Friday.

Alarms had gone off around the facility, and “impact sounds” were audible close to the embassy and the Union III military post, an anonymous US military officer told AFP.

Around 4 a.m., sirens warning people to seek shelter were activated and multiple explosions were heard close to the embassy, according to Reuters, which cited two security sources.

According to an ABC News source, two rocket salvos were fired in the strike at approximately 4:15 a.m. local time. This information was provided by a representative of the US Embassy. Although inspections were still in progress, the official stated that there had been no casualties reported at the embassy compound.

An Iraqi security officer confirmed this to the media under the condition of anonymity, stating that 14 Katyusha rockets had been fired at the Green Zone, some of which had fallen into the river and others having impacted close to the US Embassy’s gates. Although there had been some material damage, there had been no casualties, he said.

Although no group has yet taken credit for the attack, US officials have reportedly warned that “we reserve the right to self-defense to protect our personnel” and urged the Iraqi government “to do all in its power to protect diplomatic and Coalition partner personnel and facilities.”

Since the Israel-Hamas conflict began on October 7, this is the first time the US Embassy in Iraq has been attacked. The attack occurred on Friday. But in recent weeks, the US military has disclosed 78 attacks against US installations in Syria and Iraq. Militant organisations with ties to Iran have claimed responsibility for a large number of the attacks.