30 Aug 2024 | 03:18 PM UTC
Iraq, Syria: Projectile attacks targeting foreign military forces remain possible in Iraq and Syria through September /update 12
Rocket, missile, and drone attacks targeting military forces remain possible in Iraq and Syria through September.
Further attacks against US and coalition military partners remain possible in Iraq and Syria through September. Increasing tensions between Israel, Lebanon, and Iran have led to intensified efforts by Shi'a militias in Iraq and Syria to target Israel as well as the US and other Western allies in the region in recent weeks. The US has carried out retaliatory airstrikes against Shi'a militias in Iraq. Events in the Gaza Strip and elsewhere could trigger further projectile attacks against the US, its coalition allies, and their business interests in Iraq and Syria.
US defense officials have reported more than 170 drone, missile, and rocket attacks since Oct. 17. Authorities added that they intercepted most of the attacks. Affected locations in Iraq include, but are not limited to, the Ayn Al-Asad Airbase (AAAB) in Al Anbar Governorate and Al-Harir Air Base in Erbil Governorate. In Syria, the attacks targeted multiple bases, including Al-Tanf Base in Homs Governorate and the Conoco oil fields in Deir-Ez-Zur Governorate.
Heightened security and transport and business disruptions are likely near the site of any future attacks.
Heed the instructions of security forces. If an attack alert is issued in the general vicinity, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If possible, move to a ground floor, basement, or bunker. Maintain contact with your country's diplomatic mission.
Kata'ib Hizballah (KH), which constitutes the most powerful militia group within the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in Iraq, indicated in early February that they would cease hostilities against the US and its coalition partners. Militia groups have further stated that they would allow the Iraqi government to negotiate with the coalition forces for their withdrawal from Iraq. However, attacks resumed in late July against Al-Asad Air Base in Iraq and US outposts in Syria.
Shi'a militias in Iraq and Syria are likely targeting the US and its allies' bases because of their support for Israel in the conflict. Further attacks are likely as long as the Israel-Hamas conflict continues. Attacks could take various forms, including weaponized drones, missiles, mortar, or rocket attacks. Targets include the US and its coalition partners' military, government, or civilian interests.
