27 Sep 2017 | 09:29 PM UTC
Iraq: VBIED attack kills at least three in Baghdad Sep. 27
Suspected Islamic State (IS) VBIED attack kills at least three, wounds five others in northern Rusafah (central Baghdad) on September 27
Event
A vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attack killed at least three and wounded five others in the northern Rusafah district of central Baghdad on Wednesday, September 27. While no group has yet claimed responsibility for the attack, an Islamic State (IS) militant is suspected to have planted the car bomb where Sheikh Omar Street intersects the Bab al-Moatham neighborhood. Per local media reports, Iraqi security forces were deployed into the area and closed several adjacent roads following the attack. The Iraqi Directorate of Military Intelligence reported on Wednesday that the suspected terrorist who allegedly planted the car bomb was arrested in the Sulaikh area (northern Baghdad).
Expect heightened security measures in Baghdad following the attack, and in advance of the Ashura holiday, celebrated September 29-30.
Context
The suspected IS attack comes in advance of Ashura (celebrated by Shi'a Muslims September 29-30), and as Iraqi forces advance on the last two remaining IS positions in the country, in western Anbar province and Hawijah (Kirkuk province).
Terrorist attacks are common across the country, particularly in Baghdad and surrounding areas, as Iraqi authorities continue their fight to eliminate IS from their territory. Diversionary and retaliatory attacks by IS have become increasingly common since the Mosul offensive was launched in mid-October 2016, led by Iraqi security forces and backed by the predominantly Shi'a Popular Mobilization Forces and tribal groups. As IS's capabilities to successfully wage insurgent warfare in Iraq and Syria wane, it is likely that the group will continue to employ such asymmetric terror tactics with greater frequency, using small cells that can operate within the group's progressively fragmenting leadership structure.
Advice
The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.
