Drone Attack Near U.S. Base in Erbil, Northern Iraq

Security officials in the Kurdistan region of Iraq reported that a drone attack occurred near U.S. forces stationed at Erbil International Airport in northern Iraq on Saturday. The internal security apparatus of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, whose capital is Erbil, initially stated that three rockets had fallen near the airport. However, a subsequent statement from the Kurdish counter-terrorism forces indicated that the attack was carried out using explosive-laden drones. There have been no reports so far of damage or casualties. Witnesses claimed to have heard at least six explosions in the area. Erbil Airport has faced recurring attacks over the past year, including attacks using explosive-laden drones. U.S. officials have attributed previous attacks to Iranian-aligned Shiite militia factions that have vowed to fight until the remaining 2,500 American troops leave the country.