On Friday, Iranian drones launched attacks on airports and oil facilities in Iraq, escalating tensions in the region. The assaults were reportedly aimed at Kurdish opposition groups in Kurdistan, following intelligence that Kurdish militants might attempt incursions into Iran. US-led forces in Iraq also responded by downing some of the drones over Erbil, the capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, after receiving warnings about potential threats to hotels and other infrastructure.

Baghdad International Airport, which hosts a military base and US diplomatic missions, came under multiple threats from drones and rockets according to security officials. The security personnel confirmed that a drone strike occurred, leading to a fire at the airport. Just hours before these incidents, Iraqi authorities reported missiles launched at the airport from the Abugraib area near Baghdad, and later seized a vehicle containing leftover missiles.

In southern Iraq, Basra province experienced two drone attacks targeting the Burjessia oil company. These attacks signal a significant shift in the conflict dynamics involving Iran and its regional adversaries, with the potential for further escalation as Iranian forces seek to counter Kurdish movements and US presence in Iraq. This situation raises concerns regarding the safety of international assets and personnel in Iraq as tensions continue to rise in the Middle East.