Iraq: Casualties reported in alleged rocket attack near Baghdad Airport on September 28

Event

At least five people were reportedly killed when two rockets landed on a house near Baghdad International Airport (BGW) on Monday, September 28. A further two people were injured in the blasts. Local sources state that the rockets had been launched from the neighborhood of al-Jihad towards BGW but had instead impacted in the village of Albu Amer, to the west of the airport. BGW has been targeted in rocket attacks on several occasions in recent weeks, although past attacks have not resulted in casualties. The incident came after US officials warned Iraqi authorities that they may evacuate the US embassy in Baghdad if the Iraqi government does not take action against Iranian-backed Shia militias in the country.

Further attacks targeting BGW and other targets associated with the presence of foreign forces are expected to continue in the medium term. A heightened security presence is to be expected in the vicinity of BGW in the near term.

Context

The airport incident is the latest in a series of attacks against targets associated with the presence of US troops in Iraq. BGW and the Baghdad International Zone (Green Zone) have been particularly singled out.

Advice

Those in Baghdad are advised to monitor developments, avoid the affected area, 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.