Iraq intercepts 4 suicide drones targeting military unit in Nineveh

ISTANBUL

Iraq said Thursday evening that its forces had shot down four suicide drones targeting a military unit in Nineveh in the country’s north.

A statement by the Iraqi Defense Ministry said four explosive-laden drones targeted engineering units of the 14th Infantry Division in Nineveh, but were intercepted in the Makhmour district before reaching their target.

No injuries or damage were reported.

The statement said authorities are looking into the circumstances of the incident, stressing that Iraqi armed forces remain at the “highest level” of readiness to confront threats targeting the country’s security and stability.

Regional tensions flared up since Israel and the US launched a joint attack on Iran since Feb. 28 that has so far killed some 1,300 people and injured over 10,000 others, according to Iranian authorities.

Tehran retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Iraq, and Gulf countries that are home to US military assets.