Explosion targets US military site near Baghdad airport ahead of Iranian president visit

On Tuesday night, an explosion occurred at a site utilized by the U.S. military near Baghdad airport, coinciding with the anticipated visit of Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. This visit marks Pezeshkian's first official trip abroad since taking office. Iraqi security officials reported that the explosion was heard around 11 p.m. in an area associated with the U.S.-led international coalition, although the type and cause of the explosion remain undetermined. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and investigations are ongoing. Eyewitness accounts from officials at the airport indicated that two strong strikes were heard, targeting a logistics support site for coalition forces. Despite the incident, civilian air traffic continued without disruption. U.S. officials have not provided immediate comments regarding the explosion, and there is currently no information on potential damages or casualties. The incident comes amid a backdrop of increasing tensions, as Iranian-backed militias have frequently targeted U.S. bases in Iraq over the past year, citing retaliation for U.S. support of Israel during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Notably, the militia group Kataib Hezbollah distanced itself from the attack, suggesting that it was executed by 'suspicious hands' aiming to disrupt the Iranian president's visit. This explosion highlights the fragile security situation in Iraq, particularly in relation to U.S. military presence and Iranian influence. The timing of the attack raises concerns about the potential implications for diplomatic relations between Iraq and Iran, especially as Pezeshkian's visit is expected to address key regional issues.