29 Dec 2019 | 07:27 PM UTC
Iraq: US airstrikes target militia sites in Iraq December 29 /update 2
Several Iraqi militiamen killed by US airstrikes in al-Qa'im December 29; additional airstrikes possible over the near term
Event
The US military carried out airstrikes on multiple locations in Iraq linked with the Kataib Hezbollah militia group on Sunday, December 29. Several Iraqi militiamen were reportedly killed in one of the strikes, which targeted the group's headquarters in the western town of al-Qa'im. The operation comes two days after a US civilian contractor was killed in a rocket attack on the K1 Iraqi military base near Kirkuk. US officials have blamed the Iran-backed militia group for the incident. Two Kataib Hezbollah locations in Syria were reportedly targeted in Sunday's operation as well.
Additional US airstrikes targeting militia positions are possible over the coming days.
Advice
Individuals in the area are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid the area of the incident, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.
