On March 10, 2026, the city of Erbil in northern Iraq experienced a tragic drone attack that resulted in the death of Walat, a young man protecting the Erbil airport. He was killed just 90 minutes after reassuring his father that he would be safe, exemplifying the personal toll of the increasing instability in the region. Though Iraq is not officially involved in the ongoing conflict between the US and Israel against Iran, Iranian proxy forces have been targeting areas within Iraq, complicating the nation’s efforts to maintain neutrality.

Erbil, which is part of Iraq's Kurdish region, has become a focal point for attacks as Iran retaliates against perceived threats to its interests. The use of armed drones and missiles by pro-Iran militias has intensified in recent months, creating a state of alarm among the local population. The Iraqi government faces mounting pressure to respond to these aggressions while simultaneously striving to avoid deeper entanglements in international conflicts, particularly those involving US and Iranian interests.

As the situation evolves, the implications for Iraq's stability are significant. The ongoing violence not only threatens civilian lives but may also impact Iraq's political landscape, as calls for greater security measures and potential alliances are debated. The challenge for Iraq will be to protect its territory and population without compromising its sovereignty or inviting further conflict with its powerful neighbor to the east, Iran.