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© CC BY 2.0 / Jim Gordon / Baghdad International Airport

Sputnik News

Six Wounded as Four Rockets Hit Military Base Near Baghdad International Airport

Iraq has been gripped by massive demonstrations that have swept across the country since early October. The protesters are demanding the government's resignation, economic reforms, improved living standards and social welfare and an end to corruption.

A military base located in the vicinity of Baghdad International Airport has been struck by four Katyusha rockets, according to a statement issued by the nation's military. As a result of the attack, "six fighters" were injured, the statement added.

Security forces found a rocket launcher and several rockets after sweeping the area. According to an Iraqi security source, sirens were set off at the airport in anticipation of other attacks.​ No one has claimed responsibility for the incident yet.

Unconfirmed reports of a missile attack on the Baghdad International Airport emerged early on Monday after a rocket warning alert was heard in the area. Al-Arabiya alleged that the attacks had targeted US assets in the region.

Unrest in Iraq

Tensions have been running high in Iraq since early October, with people calling for the dismissal of the government, as well as deep economic reforms, better living conditions, and improved social welfare programmes.

On 31 October, Iraqi President Barham Salih announced that Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi had agreed to resign.

Later on, the White House urged the Iraqi government to hold early elections and "halt the violence against protesters".