Iraq: Supply convoy for US-led forces struck by improvised explosive device in Baghdad Governorate, Jan. 21

Event

A roadside improvised explosive device (IED) reportedly targeted a convoy of trucks carrying supplies for the US-led coalition in the Abu Ghraib area of Baghdad Governorate, west of the Iraqi capital, Jan. 21. The attack reportedly injured one member of the Iraqi security forces who were escorting the convoy. The IED attack was the second such attack in 24 hours. In an earlier incident Jan. 21, another IED reportedly targeted a US-led coalition supply convoy in Al Muthanna Governorate. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties. No group has formally claimed responsibility for either attack.

Further similar incidents are likely in the coming days. Increased security and localized traffic disruptions are possible in the vicinity of the impact area.

Context

The incident comes amid heightened tensions between the US, Iran, and Tehran-backed regional proxies. Tensions have been high since Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani and several prominent Iraqi Shi'a militia leaders, including Abu Mahdi al-Mohandes, were killed in a US drone attack near Baghdad International Airport (BGW) in January 2020. Shi'a militia leaders have regularly threatened to avenge Soleimani's and al-Mohandes' deaths; IED attacks against convoys carrying supplies for US-led coalition forces have increased.