The Ain al-Asad air base in Iraq, which hosts U.S. troops, was hit by rocket fire on Monday, according to sources. Reuters reported that at least two Katyusha rockets were launched at the base. While the sources did not confirm if there were any casualties, one security source indicated that the rockets landed within the base's perimeter.
This attack occurs amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran last week. The Iranian government has vowed retaliation against Israel, though the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has not claimed responsibility for Haniyeh’s death. Iran has announced plans to strike Israel in response, with Iranian General Hossein Salami warning of forthcoming retribution.
In response to the escalating situation, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani on Sunday. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted Blinken’s call for regional calm and stability, emphasizing the importance of avoiding further escalation. Miller also reiterated the U.S. commitment to the transition of the D-ISIS Coalition’s mission in Iraq and to maintaining force protection during this period.
