An attempt to assassinate Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa al-Khadimi (54) with a drone (drone) has raised political unrest. The prime minister was not injured, but at least seven bodyguards were injured.
According to Reuters on the 7th, a drone loaded with explosives attacked Prime Minister Kadimi’s official residence in the ‘Green Zone’ of Baghdad in the early morning of the same day. The attack took place in the Green Zone, where government buildings and foreign embassies are concentrated, even though it is considered one of the most heavily guarded areas in Iraq.
So far, no militant group has claimed responsibility for the attack. However, after the general election on the 10th of last month, the Fatah Alliance, which is linked to the pro-Iranian Shiite militias, argued that the election was fraudulent and held anti-government protests. On the 5th, a clash occurred while Shiite protesters claiming fraudulent elections tried to enter the green zone, killing one person and injuring many.
In last month’s general election, the Fatah League won only 14 seats, less than a third of what it had in 2018 (48 seats). Prime Minister Kadimi, an independent, is also a Shia Muslim. However, the Fatah Alliance, which is hostile to the United States, has been criticizing him since he came to power in May last year on the grounds that he is close to the United States. Prime Minister Kadimi tweeted on the same day, “The rebel rocket will not shake the steadfastness and determination of the heroic Iraqi military and police.” He also appeared on TV and showed off his strength.
The international community condemned terrorism. U.S. State Department spokeswoman Ned Price said, “We strongly condemn the acts of terrorism targeting the heart of the Iraqi government.”
Cairo = Correspondent Hwang Seong-ho hsh0330@donga.com
Copyright by dongA.com All rights reserved.
