Iraq - Ekhbary News Agency
New Airstrike Hits U.S. Embassy Compound in Baghdad
The U.S. Embassy in Iraq's capital, Baghdad, was struck by a new Iranian airstrike in the early hours of Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Iraqi security sources described the assault, which involved rockets and at least five drones, as the most intense since the commencement of the war between the United States and Israel against Iran. No casualties have been reported, but the extent of material damage to the diplomatic complex is still being assessed.
Eyewitnesses cited by Reuters reported that at least one drone impacted the embassy grounds, causing smoke and flames to emanate from the building. This attack follows a similar incident last Saturday, where a drone strike resulted in smoke and fire visible from the embassy structure.
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From its location within the fortified Green Zone, the U.S. Embassy observed activity from its C-RAM air defense system, which engaged what were reported to be at least five drones. International media outlets indicated that the defense system successfully intercepted two of the incoming drones, while a third managed to penetrate the embassy perimeter. A witness observed at least three drones heading towards the embassy. The C-RAM system downed two of them, while a third impacted inside the embassy compound, from where fire and smoke could be seen, according to the witness. Another Reuters witness reported hearing an explosion in the Iraqi capital.
The incident underscores a period of heightened tension and security concerns in Iraq. The U.S. Embassy had issued a renewed warning to American citizens on Monday via its X account, urging them to "leave Iraq immediately due to recurrent attacks by Iran-aligned terrorist militias against U.S. interests." This advisory is part of a series of alerts issued since March 11, following a missile strike that hit an embassy helipad. The embassy had previously issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory, closed its airspace, and evacuated non-essential personnel.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking at a press conference at the White House, reiterated his assertion that the war against Iran would conclude "soon," though he cautioned against expecting an end within the current week. President Trump also claimed that since the launch of the Pentagon's operation, codenamed 'Epic Fury' on February 28, the U.S. has successfully neutralized Iran's navy, air force, and leadership structure.
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This latest attack on the U.S. diplomatic mission in Baghdad escalates regional anxieties and highlights the precarious security situation in Iraq. The repeated targeting of diplomatic facilities represents a significant breach of international norms and places further pressure on international actors to address the underlying causes of the conflict and promote stability in the region. The ongoing volatility raises critical questions about the future of U.S.-Iran relations and Baghdad's capacity to maintain its sovereignty amidst escalating external aggressions.
