27 Jan 2020 | 08:15 AM UTC
Iraq: At least one wounded following attack on US Embassy in Baghdad January 26 /update 20
Indirect fire targeted the US Embassy in Baghdad on January 26, injuring at least one; further attacks possible over the near term
Event
Five mortars targeted the US Embassy in Baghdad at 19:28 (local time) on Sunday, January 26, causing minor injury to at least one person. Local sources confirm that the firing point was identified to the south of the Babylon Hotel on the Karadah Peninsular, and that the attack was highly likely organized by a Shi'a milita group.
Amid heightened tensions nationwide, the attack follows anti-US demonstrations called for by Shi'a cleric Muqtada Al-Sadr on Friday, January 24. Similar attacks are possible in Baghdad over the near term.
Context
Tensions have increased in Iraq after US forces killed Qasem Soleimani, the commander of Iran's Quds Force, near Baghdad International Airport (BGW) in an airstrike on January 3. Notably, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the deputy commander of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), was also killed in the strike.
Advice
Individuals in Baghdad and across Iraq are advised to closely monitor developments, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.
