Rocket hits Baghdad Green Zone causing minor damage, Iraq military says

It is the first attack on the area since a new prime minister was sworn in this month

Iraqi counter-terrorism forces stand guard at the US embassy in Baghdad after a rocket hit near by. AFP

A rocket struck Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone, the seat of Iraq's government, early on Tuesday, according to an Iraqi military statement, the first attack on the area since a new prime minister was sworn in this month.

The Katyusha rocket hit an empty house, causing minor damage. The Green Zone is where government buildings and foreign embassies are located. A preliminary investigation indicated the rocket was launched from the nearby by Al Idrisi neighbourhood on Palestine Street, the statement said.

Attacks have frequently targeted the US presence in Iraq, including the US embassy and Iraqi bases hosting American troops. The US has blamed Kataib Hezbollah, an Iraqi militia group backed by Iran, for the attacks.

The new administration of Prime Minister Mustafa Al Kadhimi, who took office this month, is preparing for a dialogue with Washington, expected to take place next month. The talks were expected to touch on security and economic cooperation between both countries.

The issue of militias acting outside of state control is also expected to be on the agenda.

Mr Al Kadhimi's government, meanwhile, is scrambling to address a severe financial crisis brought on by falling oil prices and the coronavirus pandemic.