Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces reported that its command post at Kalso military base was hit by a massive explosion, resulting in one fighter killed and six wounded, with no clear responsibility for the airstrike. The PMF, recognized as a formal security force by Iraqi authorities, includes factions close to Iran and had previously participated in attacks on U.S. forces in Iraq. The incident follows recent tensions between Israel and Iran, with Israel allegedly carrying out an attack on Iranian territory.
A massive explosion occurred at a military base used by Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) south of Baghdad, with reports suggesting it was targeted by airstrikes. The attack, allegedly carried out by drones and F-35 jets, caused material damage but no casualties. The PMF, an Iranian-backed militia with over 100,000 fighters, has become an official government-paid force in Iraq since the defeat of ISIS, posing a threat to US and Israeli forces.
Iraqi government officials condemned U.S. airstrikes on Iran-linked targets in Iraq, stating that the attacks demonstrated that U.S. forces had become a threat to their host country. The strikes resulted in the deaths of 16 fighters, including medics, and one civilian, as well as the destruction of homes. The U.S. claimed the attacks were in retaliation for the killing of three U.S. soldiers in a drone attack, and the Iraqi government declared three days of mourning for the dead. The Iraqi Prime Minister and senior military leaders have indicated that the U.S.-led coalition's presence in Iraq has become politically untenable, despite the coalition's mission to help fight ISIS.
