Diplomatic missions take ‘enormous risk’ to operate in Iraq, PM Barzani says
Barzani’s statement came the morning after a volley of rockets targeting the US Embassy fell in Iraq’s capital Baghdad. The attack on Monday caused no casualties and only minor material damage, according to security sources.
“Diplomatic missions take enormous risk to be in Iraq,” the premier tweeted on Tuesday, saying diplomats’ presence in the country is to “help confront terrorism and rebuild Iraq.”
Monday’s assault marked the third time in eight days that US, or Iraqi facilities where Americans are stationed, have been hit by rocket fire.
“I urge the federal [government] to take practical measures to ensure their safety,” Barzani added.
On February 15, rockets were fired at Erbil International Airport, where the US-led Coalition against ISIS maintains a base.
A contractor from the Philippines was killed. Eight people at the base were injured, including a US soldier, and several civilians were wounded when rockets fell in a busy commercial area. One man, 31-year-old Nawaf Rashd, died from his injuries on Monday.
The attacks in Erbil drew an international outcry, including from the UN, US, UK, and other European countries.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the United States was "outraged" by the assault and confirmed he reached out to Barzani to pledge American support and support an investigation to “hold accountable those responsible.”
