Drones target US Embassy and Victory Base in Baghdad as air defenses activated

BAGHDAD — A drone attack targeted the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad and the Victory Base Complex near Baghdad International Airport Tuesday evening, a security source told 964media, with explosions heard across the capital and air defense systems activated at both sites.

It is at least the second strike on the U.S. Embassy compound since the regional war began Feb. 28. The embassy was also hit early Saturday, with thick smoke seen rising from the compound. The Victory Base Complex was struck Sunday evening in a separate attack that sparked a major fire visible across the city, while five rockets hit the airport itself, wounding five people and prompting Prime Minister Sudani to order the replacement of sector commanders.

The Al-Rasheed Hotel, housing the Saudi embassy and the EU Advisory Mission, was struck by a drone Monday night. The UAE Consulate General in Erbil has been hit twice in a week.

Iraq’s government has repeatedly condemned the attacks and pledged to pursue those responsible. The strikes have continued.