Iraq's Green Zone housing US embassy targeted with rockets -sources


  • World
  • Friday, 08 Dec 2023

BAGHDAD (Reuters) -Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone housing the U.S. Embassy was targeted with several rockets around dawn on Friday, two security sources said, noting it was not clear where the rockets had hit and whether there was damage.

Explosions were heard near the embassy, in Iraq's capital about 4 a.m. on Friday, and sirens calling on people to "duck and cover" were activated, according to social media videos from the scene verified by an informed source.

Embassy spokespeople did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

It was not immediately clear whether the embassy's air defence systems were activated.

U.S. forces at military bases in Iraq and Syria have faced more than 70 attacks since mid-October claimed by an umbrella organisation of Iraqi Shi'ite Muslim armed groups, though diplomatic missions have been spared.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for any attack on the U.S. embassy on Friday.

(Reporting by Timour Azhari; Editing by Gerry Doyle)

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
   

Next In World

Pope Francis visit keenly awaited in deeply Catholic East Timor
Musk says SpaceX to launch first uncrewed Starships to Mars in two years
Active shooter near Kentucky highway, reports of 'numerous persons' shot
New China-Europe express railway assembly center launched in Serbia
Wildfire in Canadian national park now under control, officials say
Bolivia declares national emergency due to forest fires
Roundup: Pakistani scholars hail China's modernization, envision CPEC cooperation
Roundup: Greek economy gains momentum as credit ratings improve
"The Room Next Door" wins Golden Lion at 81st Venice Film Festival
Greek PM pledges pension, wage hikes by 2027, within budget limits

Others Also Read