Iraq condemns attack on US Embassy as ‘criminal act of aggression’

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi government condemned Tuesday’s drone attack on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad as a “criminal act of aggression” and a violation of the country’s sovereignty, with Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani directing security agencies “not to show leniency” in pursuing those responsible.

Military spokesperson Sabah al-Numan said “outlaw groups have carried out a criminal act of aggression by targeting the headquarters of the United States Embassy in the capital, Baghdad,” describing it as “a blatant terrorist assault on Iraq’s sovereignty and authority.” He warned that attacks on diplomatic missions could place Iraq “in a difficult position before the international community,” potentially leading to measures that threaten national interests.

The attack, which also targeted the Victory Base Complex near Baghdad International Airport, set off explosions heard across the capital and activated air defense systems at both sites, a security source told 964media.

The condemnation is the latest in a series that has done little to stop the strikes. Attacks on diplomatic compounds have intensified since an airstrike on a house in Baghdad’s Arasat area killed Kataib Hezbollah security chief Abu Ali al-Askari and three others. The Al-Rasheed Hotel, housing the Saudi embassy and the EU Advisory Mission, was struck Monday night. The UAE Consulate General in Erbil has been hit twice in a week. Each attack has been met with government condemnations and pledges to pursue those responsible.