Drone Attack Intercepted Near Arbil Airport
A drone was intercepted on Thursday evening near Arbil International Airport, a crucial site for the US-led anti-jihadist coalition in Iraq’s autonomous Kurdistan region. Kurdish security forces reported that the drone, carrying explosives, was neutralized at 21:58 local time, ensuring that there were no casualties or damage in the vicinity.
Arbil International Airport, which includes a military base serving coalition troops, has faced repeated attacks in recent years, primarily from rockets and drones. Dana Tofeek, the airport’s interim director, reassured the public after the incident, stating that the airport remains “safe” and that only one flight experienced a minor delay due to precautionary security measures.
Attacks Increasing Across Iraq
Despite the successful interception near Arbil, no group has claimed responsibility for the drone attack. This incident adds to a troubling trend, as various parts of Iraq have seen a surge in drone and rocket activities within the last two weeks. Earlier on Thursday, another drone packed with explosives crashed near Kirkuk Airport, which recently suffered rocket strikes.
Kirkuk Airport serves multiple Iraqi security forces, including the Iraqi army and federal police, alongside the Hashed al-Shaabi, a coalition of former pro-Iranian paramilitary units that have been integrated into the official armed forces. Additionally, on Tuesday, Iraq’s anti-aircraft defense systems were activated against a drone near the key Baiji refinery in Salahaddin province.
A History of Drone and Rocket Assaults
Iraq’s landscape has long been marred by drone and rocket assaults, making it a key battleground for various proxy wars. The country has only recently begun to stabilize following decades of conflict and turmoil, yet incidents like these highlight ongoing security challenges. Just last week, unidentified drones targeted radar systems at military bases in Baghdad and southern Iraq shortly before a ceasefire concluded a 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel.
The resurgence of drone attacks shows the fragile state of security in Iraq, underscoring the need for continued vigilance among local and coalition forces. As the nation grapples with remnants of violence and unrest, each incident poses questions about the effectiveness of current defensive measures and the broader implications for regional stability.
