Large fire breaks out in Iraq’s Erbil after drone strike

ERBIL, Iraq

A large fire broke out in the northern Iraqi city of Erbil on Wednesday following an attack by a kamikaze drone, according to local media reports.

The drone reportedly targeted Koy Sanjaq district. An explosion was heard following the strike, igniting a fire at the impact site, with thick smoke seen rising from the area.

The site that was struck was reported to be a commercial warehouse.

Fire crews were onsite to extinguish the fire.

Iraq’s Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has not issued a statement on the incident.

Separately, three loud explosions were heard in quick succession near Erbil International Airport, where a US base is also located.

Air defense systems were activated during the drone attack, with parts of a neutralized drone falling into a park in a residential area of the city.

Security forces, fire trucks and ambulances were deployed to the scene.

There was no immediate reaction from the regional government on the matter.

Since the first day Iran launched retaliatory attacks against the US and Israel, explosions have been heard daily in Erbil, and air defense systems have been activated.