A single individual has been officially killed and six others hurt following an airstrike against a military base close to Baghdad, heightening the volatile power balance in the already tensed region. The base, used by the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), an Iraqi government-backed umbrella coalition of some 40 militias that are predominantly Shia Muslim factions, and which comprises Iranian-backed militias, was targeted on Friday, raising fears of escalation.
The raid on the Kalsu military base, which is some 50 kilometers south of Baghdad, has been variously reported as being caused by drone and jet attacks, with overnight reports of major strikes against the base. While there have been reports of conflicting casualty figures, hospital officials in Hilla reported the killing of one PMF fighter and wounding of six others. Two PMF sources had originally reported the strikes inflicted material damage but did not result in casualties.
PMF released a statement stating that the explosion resulted in material loss and wounds and that there was an investigation. PMF, which is now an officially government-paid unit after the defeat of ISIS and is attached to the Iraqi Interior Ministry, has over 100,000 fighters.
The bombings, as reported by the Saudi-owned Al-Hadath network, were conducted using three F-35 fighter planes. But the US Central Command (Centcom) has firmly rejected American involvement, saying, “We are aware of reports suggesting that the United States conducted airstrikes in Iraq today. Reports are incorrect. The United States has not carried out air strikes in Iraq today.” Likewise, a US official reiterated there was no US military action in Iraq.
The attack on the PMF base is amidst increased tensions between Iran and Israel, and follows a trend of Iranian interests being attacked in the region. Relations have been heightened by incidents of cross-attacks between Iran and Israel, such as a drone-and-missile attack by Tehran against Israel, and counterattacks by Israel in Syria. Regional attempts to avert escalation are underway with G7 foreign ministers in Italy warning of fresh sanctions against Iran for its belligerent behavior, and calling on both sides to exercise restraint.
The fact that the US is in the region makes the situation even more complicated. With its troops in Iraq and Syria, the US seeks to assist and advise local troops to keep ISIS at bay. The US is also seeking to intensify regional cooperation to neutralize Iranian attacks, according to White House Mideast czar Brett McGurk.
