Kalso, Iraq – A massive explosion rocked a pro-Iranian military base overnight, resulting in one fatality and leaving eight others injured. The incident occurred at the Iraqi Popular Mobilisation Force (PMF) headquarters in Kalso, located south of Baghdad. The base, utilized by Iraq’s PMF – a security and military entity comprised of various armed groups with connections to Iran – was struck by an alleged airstrike, according to reports.
The aftermath of the explosion at Camp Kalso has caused material damage and injuries, as confirmed by a statement from the PMF. While the exact cause of the blast remains under investigation, two security sources suggest it was the result of an airstrike. However, there is uncertainty regarding the perpetrator of the attack. Despite speculation, U.S. officials have denied any involvement by American forces, who have previously been targeted by the PMF within Iraq.
The Iraqi Prime Minister’s office disclosed that the explosion occurred around 1 am, igniting a blaze within the base. The site served as the headquarters for the army, police, and security forces. Tragically, one PMF member lost their life, and eight others sustained injuries, including a member of the Iraqi army. The PMF, not only aligned with Iran but also with Hezbollah in Lebanon, openly opposes Israel and has engaged in conflicts with U.S. forces in Iraq.
This incident comes in the wake of an Israeli strike on a military base in Iran, highlighting the ongoing tensions and confrontations in the region. The PMF, initially established as separate factions associated with Tehran, eventually evolved into an official security force working in conjunction with Iraq’s armed forces. As regional hostilities persist, recent attacks in Iran, Syria, and Iraq have sparked concerns over escalating violence and the involvement of various proxy groups supported by Iran. The situation remains fluid as political and military dynamics continue to shift within the Middle East.
Iran’s extensive influence through proxy groups has raised alarms, particularly in light of recent attacks and retaliatory measures taken by various actors in the region. The complexities of the political landscape underscore the challenges faced by nations navigating through these turbulent circumstances. As the situation unfolds, monitoring developments and understanding the multifaceted relationships between the involved parties is crucial for assessing the broader implications of these conflicts.