Iraq: US conducts retaliatory airstrikes targeting militants March 12 /update 5

Event

Late (local time) on Thursday, March 12, US forces conducted a series of airstrikes targeting suspected Kataib Hezbollah (KH) sites in Iraq. The strikes come in retaliation for a rocket attack on the Al-Taji base, north of Baghdad, on Wednesday, March 11, which killed two US soldiers and one British soldier. According to US defense officials, the strikes hit five weapons facilities belonging to KH across Iraq. The officials claimed that the sites were being used to store weapons used to target US and coalition soldiers. Officials did not immediately release the location of the strikes.

Further operations against Kataib Hezbollah and other militant groups are possible over the coming days and weeks, as well as attacks targeting US and coalition troops.

Context

On March 11, approximately 18 rockets were fired into the Al-Taji airbase (27 km [17 mi] north of Baghdad), killing two Americans and one British national. Another 11 people were wounded in the attack. No group immediately claimed responsibility for the strike.

Advice

Individuals in Iraq are advised to keep abreast of the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.

The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Although travel is possible in some areas with proper security protocols in place, other areas should be considered strictly off-limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.