Rockets struck the US “Victory Base” near Baghdad, resulting in the destruction of an aircraft

Loud explosions were heard across Baghdad in the early hours of Monday. The blasts were not caused by drones, but by rockets targeting the US “Victory Base,” located about 20 kilometres west of the city.

Reports indicate that the air defence system failed to intercept the incoming rockets. They struck an Iraqi Special Forces A320B transport aircraft—closely linked to the United States—setting it on fire.

This marks the first direct strike on the Victory Base. However, no American troops were present at the time, as the facility had been evacuated earlier.

The attack is seen as both significant and symbolic. During the height of the US invasion of Iraq, the area was considered one of the most secure and heavily fortified zones in the country. That stronghold has now come under attack.

Meanwhile, US warplanes were observed patrolling the skies over Baghdad throughout the night. According to reports, including those from Turkish media, a drone may also have struck the base, though no group has yet claimed responsibility.

Since the escalation of conflict in the Middle East on 28 February, Iran-aligned militia groups have repeatedly targeted US-linked facilities in Iraq, and this latest strike appears to be part of that ongoing campaign.