Members of the pro-Iranian Shiite paramilitary group Popular Mobilization gathered in Baghdad to pay tribute to fighters who were killed in US attacks in February this year. At least two people died and three others were injured in an attack on Friday in Iraq by unknown aircraft against a base of Popular Mobilization. The attack targeted the Kalsu base near Babel, where Popular Mobilization fighters, as well as Iraqi military and police personnel, are stationed. The number of victims is still being assessed.
Although an American government source stated that the United States did not participate in the attack, Popular Mobilization has been a target of previous US attacks. The group emerged from various armed groups, many of which have ties to Iran and were later recognized by the Iraqi government as a formal security force. Some of these groups had carried out attacks against American targets in Iraq and Syria, prompting US retaliation earlier this year. The offensive against American targets ceased in February.
The incident in Babel highlights the ongoing tensions in Iraq, particularly between pro-Iranian groups and the United States. It also underscores the complex dynamics in the region, where various actors have competing interests and alliances. The aftermath of the attack will likely have repercussions on the security situation in Iraq and the wider Middle East region.