An explosion targeted a site used by the U.S. military next to Baghdad airport late Tuesday, one day before an expected visit by Iran's president. The anticipated visit by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to Baghdad on Wednesday would mark his first official trip abroad since assuming office.
The Iraqi security media cell reported that an explosion was heard at 11 p.m. at the airport in an area utilized by advisers to the U.S.-led international coalition. Iraqi security forces were unable to determine the type or causes of the explosion, and no party has claimed responsibility for it. The incident is currently under investigation, and civilian air traffic continued as normal. There is no immediate information on damages or casualties.
Officials at the airport preparing for Pezeshkian’s visit reported hearing the sound of two strong strikes, which appeared to target a logistics support site for the coalition. Over the past 11 months, Iranian-backed Iraqi militias have periodically targeted bases housing U.S. forces in Iraq, citing retaliation for Washington’s support of Israel in the conflict in Gaza.
One of these militias, Kataib Hezbollah, sought to distance itself from Tuesday night’s strike. The group's spokesperson stated that the airport targeting was carried out by suspicious hands with the aim of disrupting the Iranian president's visit to Baghdad.
The U.S. officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions in the region and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.
