US Embassy in Baghdad hit by missile attack on helipad

US Embassy in Baghdad Hit by Missile Attack

A missile attack occurred at the US Embassy in Baghdad’s Green Zone, causing smoke to rise from the building. According to an Iraqi security source, the attack damaged part of the embassy’s air defense system.

The projectile struck a helipad inside the embassy, and videos posted on social media showed smoke rising from the compound after the incident. The Associated Press reported that two security officials confirmed the attack, but did not provide further details.

There was no immediate comment from the US Embassy in Baghdad. Al Jazeera’s reporting indicated that there were no immediate reports of casualties or the extent of damage in the attack.

The attack is believed to be linked to Iran-aligned armed groups in Iraq, which have pledged to target US facilities. The groups have issued a statement offering a reward for information leading to the capture of US diplomatic personnel inside the country.

This incident marks the second time the US Embassy has been attacked in Baghdad since the start of the war. The embassy has previously renewed its security alert due to concerns about Iran and Iran-aligned armed groups targeting US citizens, interests, and infrastructure.

The attack follows recent strikes against Iranian-backed groups, including Kataib Hezbollah, which killed two members, including a key figure. Iraq has been a battleground in the conflict between the US and Iran, with both sides carrying out attacks on each other’s targets.

Source: Al Jazeera