Baghdad, Iraq – A military base in Iraq housing a pro-Iranian militia was struck by an explosion, resulting in one fatality and injuring eight individuals, according to security officials. The incident occurred at Kalso military base, located about 50km south of Baghdad, in the early hours of a Saturday morning. The Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), an umbrella organization with several pro-Iranian militias, attributed the explosion to an attack, amidst escalating tensions between Israel and Iran.
Reports from Iraq’s military indicated no presence of drones or fighter jets in the area before or during the blast. The PMF, known for targeting US personnel and interests in Iraq, has been engaged in confrontations aimed at driving out American troops. Despite past hostilities, the Pentagon swiftly denied any involvement in the recent incident, distancing itself from the explosion at the military base.
The eruption of hostilities between Israel and Iran has added complexity to the situation, with both countries engaging in direct attacks on each other’s territories. An Israeli strike near Isfahan, Iran, triggered by a previous drone and missile onslaught on Israel, sparked further retaliatory actions. As tensions escalate, the Iranian foreign minister warns of an immediate and potent response to any significant attacks on their interests by Israel.
The incident at Kalso military base serves as a reminder of the ongoing regional tensions and proxy conflicts that have plagued the Middle East for years. With the PMF and other pro-Iranian militias often acting as extensions of Tehran’s influence, the region remains a powder keg of geopolitical rivalries and military confrontations. The investigation into the explosion at the base, led by the PMF’s chief of staff Abdul Aziz al-Mohammedawi and Iraqi military officials, aims to uncover the cause of the blast and any potential involvement by external actors.
Amidst the backdrop of escalating tensions, the unpredictability and volatility of the situation underscore the potential for further escalation and violence in the region. As key players maneuver and counter each other’s moves, the risk of a wider conflict looms large, posing a significant threat to regional stability and security. Despite efforts to contain the situation, the interconnected web of alliances and hostilities in the Middle East continues to fuel uncertainty and conflict, with repercussions that extend far beyond the borders of the countries involved.