Explosions Rock Baghdad as US Embassy Targeted in Drone and Rocket Attack

Several loud explosions were heard on Tuesday evening across Baghdad, according to AFP journalists, as a security official confirmed a drone and rocket attack targeting the US Embassy in Baghdad.

Witnesses reported seeing flashes in the sky believed to be air defence systems intercepting incoming projectiles near the embassy. One individual dining at a nearby restaurant said the blasts were followed by visible interceptions, though many initially did not react to the sounds.

Another witness observed a fire at the edge of the embassy grounds, which officials said was caused by a drone impact. A security source, speaking anonymously, confirmed that both drones and rockets were used in the attack.

The incident comes amid heightened tensions in Iraq, which has long served as a proxy battleground between the United States and Iran. In recent days, Iran-backed armed groups have intensified attacks targeting US interests across the region.

The heavily fortified embassy zone in central Baghdad, along with an American diplomatic and logistics facility at Baghdad International Airport, has been repeatedly targeted.

Earlier this week, similar attacks struck the US diplomatic mission, while a drone reportedly crashed into a luxury hotel frequented by foreign diplomats.