Iraq: Gunmen kill prominent Iraqi analyst and advisor in Baghdad July 6

Event

Unidentified gunmen shot and killed a prominent former government advisor and political analyst near his home in Baghdad's Zayouna district on Monday, July 6. The killing of Hisham al-Hashemi has been described by Iraqi government sources as a targeted killing, but no blame was placed on any particular group, and no one has claimed responsibility for the attack as of Tuesday, July 7.

A heightened security presence is likely in the vicinity of the attack over the near term. Further killings targeting government officials are possible over the near term.

Context

Hisham al-Hashemi was known for his expertise on Islamic State (IS) but had increasingly turned his attention to the Iran-backed militias that helped to defeat IS in 2017 and continue to hold influence in Iraq.

Advice

Individuals in Baghdad are advised to monitor developments, adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments, and maintain a heightened sense of vigilance at all times.