Several explosions occurred at a military base belonging to an Iran-backed militia in Iraq, resulting in at least three individuals sustaining injuries. The incident took place at a site owned by the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) in Babylon Governorate, located south of Baghdad. The cause of the blasts remains unknown at this time.
Both Israeli and US officials have denied any involvement in the explosions, following a recent military strike on Iran that has been attributed to Israel. The PMU, also known as the Popular Mobilization Forces, is a predominantly Shiite paramilitary force supported by Iran and closely associated with Shiite political factions in Iraq.
The PMU confirmed that the explosions occurred at the Kalsu military base in the Al-Mashrou district, resulting in material damages as well. Investigators are currently on-site conducting a preliminary investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
These explosions come amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing conflicts between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran. Recent tit-for-tat strikes have brought the long-standing shadow war between the two countries into the spotlight.
Following the Iraq blasts, both Israeli and US officials have denied any involvement in the incident. The US Central Command also refuted claims of conducting airstrikes in Iraq on the same day. The PMU, recognized as a government entity in Iraq since 2016, operates alongside the Iraqi military and encompasses various forces, including the influential Kataib Hezbollah.
