Iraqi security sources reported that early on Tuesday rockets and a minimum of five drones were launched at the U.S. embassy in Baghdad from positions around the city. Security officials described the incident as the most intense attack since the start of the U.S.-Israel war with Iran.
Witnesses observed at least three drones heading toward the embassy compound. The C-RAM air defence system engaged the incoming devices, shooting down two, while a third drone struck inside the embassy grounds, where observers saw fire and smoke rising.
An explosion was also heard elsewhere in the Iraqi capital, according to another witness. Efforts to reach the embassy for comment were unsuccessful after its mobile phones were switched off when called.
Security sources said the assault follows a pattern of attacks by Iranian-backed militias against U.S. interests in Iraq. These groups have been carrying out retaliatory strikes linked to the conflict that began on February 28.
Incidents in the preceding days included the announcement by the Iran-aligned group Kataib Hezbollah of the death of one of its senior commanders and spokesperson. Separately, the Popular Mobilization Forces reported that air strikes killed at least eight of its fighters in the Iraqi town of al-Qaim near the border with Syria.
In response to the latest incident, Iraqi security forces were deployed across parts of Baghdad and authorities closed the Green Zone - the fortified district that contains government offices and diplomatic missions, including the U.S. embassy.
This account is based on statements from Iraqi security sources and on witness observations of the events described above. Details available in the reporting are limited to the incidents and official statements noted; other aspects of the situation were not confirmed at the time of reporting.