Iraq: Supply convoy hit by improvised explosive device on Basrah-Nasiriyah Highway Jan. 25

Event

A roadside improvised explosive device (IED) reportedly targeted a convoy of trucks carrying supplies for the US-led coalition along the Basrah-Nasiriyah Highway, between Basrah and Dhi Qar governorates, Jan. 25. 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 and will likely persist.