Iraqi Kurdistan: drone carrying explosives shot down near Erbil International Airport

Iraqi Kurdistan: drone carrying explosives shot down near Erbil International Airport

Iraqi Kurdistan has experienced a series of drone attacks in recent weeks, with the latest incident occurring on July 2, 2025, near Erbil International Airport. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) reported that a drone carrying explosives was shot down near the airport, causing no casualties or material damage. This incident is part of a broader pattern of drone and rocket attacks targeting US-led coalition troops and military installations in the region.

The KRG has blamed the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), an Iraqi state paramilitary organization with significant Iranian backing, for the attacks. Baghdad, however, has rejected these accusations and condemned the KRG's assertions. The dispute has escalated tensions between the KRG and the Iraqi government, with both sides accusing each other of provocation.

The recent attacks come amid ongoing negotiations between Baghdad and Erbil over several contentious issues, including salary disputes and energy deals. The KRG has called on Baghdad to take legal measures against the perpetrators and set limits on such destructive actions.

The drone attacks have also occurred in the context of increased tensions between Iran and Israel. Following a 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel, Iran has been cracking down on dissident groups, including Kurdish groups in northern Iraq. This has led to increased Iranian activity in the region, including the use of drones and rockets against Kurdish targets.

The US has blamed Iran-backed militias for the attacks and has continued to support local forces in their efforts to counter the threat. Despite the ongoing attacks, the US has not changed its plans to end its combat mission in Iraq by the end of 2025, but will continue to train and advise the Iraqi military.

The drone attacks have raised concerns about the security of US-led coalition troops in the region and the stability of the KRG. As the KRG and Baghdad continue to negotiate, the risk of further attacks remains high.

References:
[1] https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2025/07/kurdish-government-blames-iranian-backed-militias-for-increasing-drone-attacks-targeting-iraqi-kurdistan.php
[2] https://www.arabnews.pk/node/1927126/metrics/aggregate