According to AFP, three mortar shells hit the fortified Green Zone in Baghdad, where the Iraqi authorities are located. The Iraqi military told Reuters that the shells had caused “no casualties or physical damage”
An unconfirmed video circulating on Iraqi social media shows the possible mortars exploding.
Local media reported sirens close to the US Embassy. US officials said that they are “closely following reports on possible explosions” and the staff was “taking precautions.”
READ MORE: Three Protesters Die During Clashes in Iraq's Basra — Reports
An assault by unidentified attackers comes as the country is struggling with an outbreak of violent protests in the southern city of Basra. Two days ago ten militant groups issued a joint statement threatening to attack foreign interests in Iraq.
According to the Washington Post, this is the first attack on the Baghdad Green Zone since late 2015. From 2003-2011 the highly secured area was frequently attacked by mortars and bombs during the anti-US insurgency.