Ain Al Asad Airbase, which is located in Iraq's Al Anbar province and hosts Iraqi and US troops, was subjected to a massive rocket attack on Wednesday, Iraq's state-run news agency INA reported, citing a security source.
"The Ain Al Asad base was attacked today with 10 rockets, according to preliminary data," the source said.
The US military later confirmed the rocket attack, saying that the rockets were fired by the IDF, adding that Iraqi security forces are leading an investigation.
Initial report: 10 IDF rockets targeted an Iraqi military base, Al Asad Airbase, hosting Coalition troops, on March 03, 2021 at approx 7:20 a.m. (Iraqi time). Iraqi SF are leading the response & investigation. Further information will be released as it becomes available.
— OIR Spokesman Col. Wayne Marotto (@OIRSpox) March 3, 2021
Previously there were reports of 107mm projectiles on social media.
Images (c/o Iraqi Shiite insurgent source "Sabereen News") allegedly show a wrecked Kia truck used as a launching pad for at least 4 107mm Katyusha rockets fired at U.S. forces stationed at Ain al-Assad Air Base in Iraq's western Anbar Province. pic.twitter.com/ZbdcWwMhZs
— Evan Kohlmann (@IntelTweet) March 3, 2021
However, Iraqi militias later claimed responsibility.
#UPDATE
— Heshmat Alavi (@HeshmatAlavi) March 3, 2021
A Telegram channel linked to #Iran-backed militias in Iraq claims claims that 14 [107 mm] Katyusha rockets were fired at the Ain al-Assad military base this morning.
[File photos also provided] pic.twitter.com/AjgirB0TLY
At first, there were no casualties reported as a result of the attack. However, later, the security sources reported that a civilian contractor died in the attack.
On 8 January, the Ain Al Asad Airbase as well as the Erbil Airbase in the country's north were hit by dozen missiles launched by Iran in response to Soleimani killing.
Iran reportedly warned Iraq in advance, which in turn presumably briefed the US forces stationed in the country, allowing them to take shelter in prepared bunkers. Although the missile strikes did cause substantial damage to the base infrastructure but did not kill any US troops.
