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The Iraqi government has vehemently criticized the recent USS airstrikes on military positions within its borders, labeling the action a “clear hostile act” and an “unacceptable violation of Iraqi sovereignty.” These strikes were America’s response to an earlier drone attack by Iran-aligned militants, which critically injured one US service member and wounded two others.

According to Iraqi officials, the overnight US strikes specifically targeted the Kataib Hezbollah headquarters in Hilla, south of Baghdad, resulting in one militia member’s death and injuries to 16 others.

This incident has escalated tensions, with Iraq condemning both the unauthorized American military action and the initial attacks by armed groups on military bases housing US-led coalition advisers as infringements on its sovereignty.

The US maintains a significant military presence in the region, with 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in Iraq. These forces are part of a mission to advise and assist local efforts in preventing a resurgence of the Islamic State, which had previously seized substantial territories in both countries.