Iraq downs drones near Basra vital site, seizes rocket vehicle near Baghdad

Iraqi security forces intercepted and destroyed two unmanned aerial vehicles near a critical installation in Basra on Friday evening, the Security Media Cell reported. The drones were shot down outside one of the country's vital facilities in the southern province, with no damage or casualties reported. Authorities declined to immediately identify the specific installation targeted.

Abu Ghraib Rocket Attack Foiled

In a separate incident west of Baghdad, security forces responded to a rocket attack launched from a vehicle in the Abu Ghraib area at approximately 8:20 p.m. local time. Several projectiles fell in empty areas far from Baghdad International Airport, causing no casualties. Security personnel quickly seized the vehicle, which still contained additional rockets, and technical teams safely secured the remaining munitions. An investigation has been opened into the incident.

Erbil Drone Downed

The governor of Erbil in northern Iraq confirmed that a drone was shot down near a hotel in the city, causing no damage or casualties. The incidents come as Iran continues launching missiles and drones toward Iraq, Israel, and Gulf states, targeting what Tehran describes as US military assets in retaliation for the US-Israeli offensive that has killed hundreds including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iraqi factions aligned with Iran have reportedly participated in attacks on American bases in Iraq, according to media channels affiliated with those groups.