10 Popular Mobilization Fighters Killed in Airstrikes in Iraq

SadaNews - Airstrikes targeted a position belonging to the Popular Mobilization Forces in Anbar province, western Iraq, resulting in the death of at least 10 fighters, including the commander of the Popular Mobilization Operations in Anbar, in addition to injuring around 30 others.

In an official statement, the Popular Mobilization confirmed the death of Commander of Anbar Operations Saad Al-Baiji and a number of his escorts, accusing the United States of carrying out the attack, noting that the airstrike targeted the command headquarters while they were performing their duties.

Security and health sector sources told Reuters that the shelling occurred during a security meeting that included several senior leaders.

Iraqi health authorities reported that at least 60 people were killed, most of whom are members of the Popular Mobilization Forces.

Security officials at one of the Iraqi ports stated that a member of a foreign crew was killed in an attack targeting tankers near the port.

It is worth noting that the Popular Mobilization Forces comprise mostly Shiite-majority paramilitary factions, which have been officially integrated into the Iraqi security system and include several Iranian-affiliated groups.

These developments come amid rising tensions, as Iran-backed groups have been launching attacks on American bases in Iraq since the outbreak of the war on Iran in February, raising concerns about the escalation of conflict in the region.