Iraq: Explosive device targeting military vehicle in Makhmur killed two soldiers and wounded three others, Dec. 22

Event

An explosive device reportedly targeted an Iraqi military vehicle near Makhmur, Nineveh Governorate, killing at least two soldiers and wounding three others Dec. 22. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack as yet; however, it is likely that Islamic State militants, which are active in parts of northern Iraq, were responsible for the attack.

This is the third attack in a week in Iraq. On the evening of Dec. 19, IS militants attacked a group of civilian vehicles driving near Albu Bali, approximately 17 km north of Baqubah, killing at least six people and injuring eight others. On Dec. 18, IS militants detonated an explosive device near an Iraqi security force convoy southwest of Kirkuk, killing nine federal police officials.

Officials will likely deploy additional security personnel in the area in response to the attack. Security force operations could include additional checkpoints and patrols. The assailants remain at large, and further attacks may occur.

Advice

Avoid the impact site. Heed the instructions of the security forces. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Coordinate travel with a trusted source.