Multiple Explosions Rock Erbil Near US Consulate As Iran Launches Fresh Strikes In Iraq

Erbil: Several explosions rocked Erbil in northern Iraq on Tuesday morning, including one near the US consulate, as Iranian drones targeted several locations across the area, amid rising tensions in West Asia. According to reports, at least four Iranian drones targeted locations in the Khalifan and Soran areas of northern Iraq, northeast of Erbil.

Where did the attack happen?

As per reports, citing police sources, at least four Iranian drones targeted locations in the Khalifan and Soran areas of northern Iraq, northeast of Erbil and caused massive fires in and around the areas, police said, adding that two drones crashed near the targeted locations.

Iraqi local media said that at least seven explosions were heard across Erbil, including in the area near the US consulate. In response to the suspected Iranian drone attack, police sources said that more than 10 US warplanes and drones were reportedly seen flying over Erbil.

Additionally, Iran's state broadcaster, citing Iraqi sources, reported the destruction of a US drone in Al Anbar province, while local media released images of a US drone crash near Haditha Dam.

Did Iran target Khor Mor gas field in Sulaymaniyah?

These attacks were accompanied by widespread military activity in northern and western Iraq. The Iranian state broadcaster reported that the Khor Mor gas field in Sulaimaniyah was attacked. These attacks come as US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he is prepared to resume very strong military action against Iran if ongoing diplomatic efforts fail.

However, he confirmed that he has halted planned attacks on the Islamic Republic to give talks another chance, according to a reports. The current talks are focused on reaching a new agreement that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart negotiations on a major nuclear deal with Iran.

The talks are primarily being led by Iran and Oman, with Qatar, Pakistan, Egypt, and Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior adviser Jared Kushner also playing active roles. 

"We are in very intense negotiations with Iran. If they don't succeed, we will return to very strong military action," Trump said.