Iraq: new attack on Baghdad's "green zone"

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Early this morning Thursday, June 18, rockets again hit the "green zone" of Baghdad, where the US Embassy is based. It was the fifth such attack in ten days, a security source inside the ultra-secure neighborhood told AFP.

Publicity

This Thursday, June 18, AFP journalists heard at least three explosions, followed by the sound of sirens installed in the "green zone". No casualties or damage was reported immediately. Like the previous ones, these shots were not claimed, even if Washington points the finger at the pro-Iran. This is the second attack since June 8 near the US Embassy. Other rocket attacks twice targeted Baghdad airport, which is currently closed due to Covid-19 and where American soldiers are stationed, as well as a base north of Baghdad, Taji, also housing troops Washington.

Thirty-two attacks

At least 32 attacks have targeted American soldiers or diplomats in Iraq since October 2019. Tensions between Washington and Tehran, sworn enemies competing for influence in Iraq, have degenerated in recent months and the assassination of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani in early January and his Iraqi lieutenant in Baghdad almost gave rise to open conflict.

Since then, Iraq has adopted a new government , which is said to be more pro-American, and rocket fire - which has killed three Americans and one Briton in recent months - has seen a lull. The recent resumption of fire coincides with the launch on June 11 of a "  strategic dialogue  " supposed to redefine cooperation between Baghdad and Washington, but which experts say do not expect great results.

An eviction never implemented

American soldiers, who numbered 5,200 last year before hundreds of them were withdrawn due to rockets and the Covid-19, are facing an expulsion decision passed by the Iraqi parliament but never implemented by government.

( with AFP )

Read also: After tensions, Washington will reduce its troops in Iraq in the "next few months"

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• Iraq
• United States
• Defense
• Terrorism

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