ANKARA

Multiple explosive-laden drones aimed at the US Consulate General and the US-led coalition base at Erbil International Airport in northern Iraq were intercepted by air defense systems on Tuesday, with loud explosions echoing across the city as tensions soar following US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

Air defense systems, including US-operated ones, were activated to neutralize the incoming drones, preventing direct hits on the targeted facilities.

Residents reported hearing blasts, primarily near the airport area, where coalition troops are stationed, though no immediate casualties were confirmed based on the latest intercepts.

Since the onset of joint US-Israeli attacks on Iran, Erbil has faced near-daily drone and missile threats, with an Iraqi Shiite group known as Saraya Awliya al-Dam claiming responsibility for several attacks.

US authorities have issued security alerts urging caution, sheltering in place, and avoiding travel to the Erbil Consulate amid ongoing risks.