Explosion at Iraqi Military Base Kills 1, Injures 8

An explosion occurred at the Al-Saqr military base in Kalsu, Iraq, approximately 50 km south of Baghdad, on Saturday. The base is used by the Shia militia group Al-Hashd Al-Shaabi, also known as the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF). According to Reuters and AFP sources, the blast killed one person and injured eight others.

The explosion caused a sizable blaze and inflicted material losses and casualties at the base, which houses army troops and the pro-Iranian paramilitary group Hashed al-Shaabi. An interior ministry source and a military official confirmed the attack, with Hashed al-Shaabi stating that the search for the injured is ongoing amid the still-raging fire.

While the perpetrator has not been identified, the PMF claimed that the US was behind the strike. However, the US Central Command denied conducting any air strikes in Iraq that day. The reported attack comes as Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani concludes a visit to Washington, during which he discussed plans for the withdrawal of US and allied troops from Iraq.

Two PMF and two security sources stated that the blast, which occurred around midnight on Friday, was the result of an unknown airstrike. The sources indicated that the strikes did not lead to any casualties but caused material damage to a PMF headquarters at the Kalso military base near the town of Iskandariya. Government officials have not yet responded to requests for comment.

Why this matters: The attack on the Al-Saqr military base highlights the ongoing tensions and security challenges in Iraq, particularly involving the PMF and its ties to Iran. The incident also underscores the intricate dynamics between the Iraqi government, the US, and various armed factions within the country.

The Hashed al-Shaabi, now part of Iraq's security forces, confirmed the attack and the resulting casualties and material losses. The explosion hit equipment, weapons, and vehicles at the base, according to sources. The attack comes amid heightened tensions over the war between Israel and Tehran-backed Palestinian militants Hamas.

Key Takeaways

• Explosion at Al-Saqr military base in Kalsu, Iraq, killing 1 and injuring 8.
• Base used by Shia militia group Al-Hashd Al-Shaabi, also known as PMF.
• PMF claims US behind strike, but US Central Command denies conducting any air strikes.
• Attack highlights ongoing tensions and security challenges in Iraq, involving PMF and Iran.
• Explosion hit equipment, weapons, and vehicles at the base, causing material losses.