Iraq: Coalition convoy targeted near Hillah city (Babil governorate) on September 27

Event

A convoy transporting supplies for international coalition forces in Salah al-Din governorate was reportedly targeted by a roadside improvised explosive device (IED) on Sunday, September 27. The attack is reported to have taken place on the Hillah highway (Babil governorate). No further details have been released. The attack was the second such incident in Iraq on Sunday, with an earlier attack hitting a US logistics convoy in Dhi Qar governorate.

Further attacks against international forces and their interests are likely throughout Iraq in the near term. A heightened security presence is to be expected in the affected area while investigations into the incident continue.

Context

Multiple IED attacks targeting logistics convoys supporting US forces have been reported in Iraq since August, with most such incidents being attributed to Shia militia groups. While the details regarding motivations and perpetrators associated with the attack remain unvalidated, the incidents coincide with an increase of tensions between the US and Shia militias following the second iteration of the US-Iraq Strategic Dialogue held in late August. Recent attacks against convoys have generally utilized low-yield IEDs, presumably designed to hinder the progress of the convoys rather than to kill.

Advice

Those in the area are advised to monitor developments 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.