30 Dec 2019 | 09:31 AM UTC
Iraq: Death toll rises to 25 following US airstrike December 30 /update 3
At least 25 killed following US airstrike as of December 30; additional airstrikes possible over the near term
Event
Media reports have indicated that at least 25 militia fighters have been killed following a US airstrike as of Monday, December 30. The US military carried out airstrikes on multiple locations in Iraq linked with the Kataib Hezbollah militia group on Sunday, December 29. The operation comes two days after a US civilian contractor was killed in a rocket attack on the K1 Iraqi military base near Kirkuk. US officials have blamed the Iran-backed militia group for the incident. Two Kataib Hezbollah locations in Syria were reportedly targeted in Sunday's operation as well.
Additional US airstrikes targeting militia positions are possible over the coming days.
Advice
Individuals in the area are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area of the incident, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.
