3 stories for 2026-03-03 · Armed conflict, civilian harm & humanitarian access · Iraq
Air defense systems were activated over Erbil in Iraqi Kurdistan, with residents reporting sounds of aircraft and explosions. Residents expressed concern about potential escalation in the Middle East region.
Air defense systems intercepted at least two armed drones early Monday morning near Erbil airport, the capital of Iraq's Kurdistan region, which hosts U.S. military bases.
Erbil in Iraq's Kurdistan region came under heavy attack with over 70 missiles and drones, according to Iraqi Foreign Ministry statements. Peshmerga forces, a Kurdish political party, and civilian areas were targeted in the strikes. Air defense systems intercepted several drones during the assault, and an Iraqi militia group claimed responsibility for drone and rocket strikes on the city.