31 Jan 2020 | 10:20 PM UTC
Iraq: Rocket attack near military base in Mosul (Nineveh province) January 31
Rocket attack reported near Qayyarah Airfield in Mosul (Nineveh province) January 31; further attacks possible over the near term
Event
Unidentified militants reportedly fired five rockets at Qayyarah Airfield in Mosul (Nineveh province) on Friday, January 31. The airbase currently houses US and Iraqi forces. No injuries or damage were immediately reported; further details are still emerging.
Similar rocket attacks are possible 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 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.
