Iraq, Baghdad: On Monday, a rocket attack targeted the Ain al-Assad base in western Iraq, wounding several US personnel. This incident adds to a series of recent assaults on the base, which houses American and coalition forces combating ISIS. US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the attack and discussed measures to defend their troops and respond appropriately.
The attack comes amidst rising tensions over potential Iranian retaliation against Israel following the recent killing of prominent Hamas and Hezbollah figures, blamed on or claimed by Israel. The rocket fire, which also hit a nearby village, follows a series of retaliatory actions, including a US strike last week on individuals launching drones deemed a threat to allied forces. This strike was the first American action in Iraq since February and has intensified regional tensions.
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— ConflictLive 💬 (@conflict_live) August 6, 2024
(1/2) Several U.S. personnel were injured in a suspected rocket attack against #US and Coalition forces at Al Asad Air Base in #Iraq on Monday, a Pentagon spokesperson said.https://t.co/O2Z5s4Wexq pic.twitter.com/p8GIJNd5oY
Pro-Iran groups, including Iraqi factions and Yemen's Huthis, have been involved in the conflict, contributing to fears of a broader regional conflict. Prior to this, attacks on US bases in Iraq had largely ceased since April, following a period of frequent targeting during the early months of the Israel-Hamas war. The US and Iraqi governments are engaged in discussions to address the future of the US-led coalition’s presence in Iraq amid demands for withdrawal by Iran-backed groups.
