Iraqi PM escapes assassination attempt

Two Iraqi officials told The Associated Press that seven of al-Kadhimi’s security guards were injured in the attack with two armed drones which occurred in Baghdad’s heavily fortified Green Zone area.

The statement released by state-run media said security forces were “taking the necessary measures in connection with this failed attempt.”

It comes amid a stand-off between security forces and pro-Iran Shiite militias whose supporters have been camped outside the Green Zone for nearly a month after they rejected the results of Iraq’s parliamentary elections in which they were they lost around two-thirds of their seats.

The U.S. State Department called the drone attack “an apparent act of terrorism” and said U.S. officials were relieved to learn that al-Kadhimi was unharmed. “We are in close touch with the Iraqi security forces charged with upholding Iraq’s sovereignty and independence and have offered our assistance as they investigate this attack,” said State Department spokesperson Ned Price in a statement.

But following the vote, militia supporters pitched tents near the Green Zone, rejecting the election results and threatening violence unless their demands for a recount were met.