Iraq: IED detonates in Baghdad May 25

Event

An improvised explosive device (IED) reportedly detonated near the Communist Party Headquarters (close to Al-Andalus Square) in central Baghdad on the evening of Friday, May 25 (local time). Unconfirmed reports have claimed that indirect fire also struck the area. No casualties were immediately reported from the incident, which appears to have been politically motivated and related to the recent May 12 parliamentary elections. Additional politically motivated attacks are possible in Baghdad in the coming days and weeks in the wake of the election.

Context

In addition to the apparent politically motivated attack on May 25, several attacks claimed by the Islamic State (IS) took place at polling stations in Diyala, Saladin, and Kirkuk provinces in the days around the May 12 election, killing several people. The threat of politically motivated violence will likely remain present in the coming weeks at least until a government is formed, which is supposed to take place within 90 days from the declaration of official election results on May 15-16.

Advice

Individuals in Iraq are advised to closely monitor the situation, avoid the area of the blast, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.