U.S. Embassy in Baghdad Targeted in Rocket Attack Over Weekend

The U.S. Embassy in Baghdad was the target of a rocket attack over the weekend. Last night, the embassy confirmed the attack in a tweet, reporting some “minor damage” to a usually empty residential complex and some cars. While no injuries or casualties occurred among American personnel, one Iraqi security person at a checkpoint was hurt. A U.S. official in Baghdad confirmed they were able to deploy a counter artillery and mortar defense system to intercept the attack and the Iraqi military has already accused ‘an outlawed group’ for being responsible. This incident came nearly a year after the U.S. killed Iran’s top general, Qasem Soleimani. In preparation for the anniversary, a partial staff withdrawal at the embassy had taken place over the last few weeks. In their official statement, the U.S. Embassy said “these sorts of attacks on diplomatic facilities are a violation of international law,” adding any guilty parties will be held accountable.