Tensions Rise: Drone Strike Hits Iraq's Taji Military Base Amid US-Iran Escalation

A drone attack on Iraq's Taji military base north of Baghdad underscores mounting tensions between the US and Iran. While the strike resulted in no casualties, it follows recent US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites and subsequent retaliatory missile launches by Iran targeting American installations in the Middle East.

Tensions escalated Wednesday as a drone targeted Iraq's Taji military base, north of Baghdad. Authorities confirmed the attack, reported by Anadolu Agency, stating that the drone struck a location within the base. Lieutenant General Walid al-Tamimi assured there were no casualties and promised further updates.

Local media speculated the target was a French radar system at the base, once home to US-led international coalition forces before being transferred to the Iraqi army in 2020. This incident coincides with Iran's missile launches at US military sites in Qatar and Iraq, including the heavily fortified Al Udeid Air Base.

The drone strike comes in the wake of US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, escalating tensions. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Dan Caine are in the Situation Room, monitoring the situation, while American personnel brace for more missile attacks, as security concerns intensify across the Gulf region following Iran's vow of retaliation.

(With inputs from agencies.)