Explosions hit Iraqi military base, one killed, several injured

The blasts struck Kalsu military base in Babil province, located south of Baghdad, where fighters of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), also known as Hashd al-Shaabi, are stationed.

According to a statement by the PMF, an investigation is underway into the explosions, which caused material damage and casualties. Images and videos circulated on social media depicted a large fire engulfing the base, previously utilized as a US military installation until 2011.

Subsequent reports from Iraqi authorities confirmed one PMF member dead and at least eight others injured in the incident.

Responding to accusations, Iraq's Security Media Cell asserted, "no drone or warplane was present in the airspace of Babil before or during the explosion," refuting claims of US airstrikes.

While the US has previously conducted airstrikes against these armed groups, Central Command (CENTCOM) denied any involvement in the Kalsu incident. "We are aware of reports claiming that the United States conducted airstrikes in Iraq today. These reports are not true. The United States has not conducted airstrikes in Iraq today," CENTCOM stated. (ILKHA)