6 stories for 2026-03-12 · Iraq
Iraqi security sources and media outlets reported several airstrikes targeting the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a government umbrella organization overseeing various paramilitary groups. Strikes on PMF headquarters and positions in al-Qaim, Anbar province, and Kirkuk killed at least ten to twenty personnel, with additional casualties reported. The attacks are part of a series of recent strikes on PMF targets.
A prominent Iraqi women's rights activist was shot and killed outside her home in Baghdad on March 2, 2026, by two gunmen on motorcycles, according to Human Rights Watch.
Two oil tankers came under attack by armed men near Fao port in Basra, Iraq, resulting in fires on both vessels and the death of one crew member. Iraqi authorities rescued 38 people and suspended port operations. Concerns have been raised about potential expansion of attacks on energy infrastructure amid regional tensions.
Iraq's Defense Ministry condemned repeated aerial attacks on its military bases, while security sources reported an airstrike on a Popular Mobilization Forces camp in al-Suwayra district south of Baghdad. The U.S. and Israel have been attributed responsibility for ongoing strikes against the militia group.
Iran's police chief warned citizens on Wednesday against participating in protests calling for regime change, following statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu encouraging Iranians to rise up.
Erbil has experienced drone attacks for eleven consecutive nights. The source provides minimal details about the attacks, their origin, casualties, or impact.