US soldier killed in Iraq while dismantling Iranian attack drone

The Iraqi and US flags outside a hotel in the Iraqi capital Baghdad on September 27, 2020. Photo: AFP Baghdad (IraqiNews.com)—A US service member was killed and another injured in northern Iraq while disposing of explosive ordnance from a crashed Iranian one-way attack drone, the US military announced on Sunday. The soldier was killed on July 18 during a controlled explosion of unexploded explosives from the drone, while the second service member had a minor injury and is being treated, according to US Central Command (CENTCOM). The event occurs as Iraq strives to convince international investors that improved security and economic reforms are rebuilding trust after decades of strife, despite regional tensions spilling into Iraqi territory. During a recent visit to Washington, Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi’s government signed a series of agreements with US companies and financial institutions on energy, infrastructure, aviation, and banking as part of Baghdad’s larger effort to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment. The latest incident highlights the security threats that continue to impede Iraq’s recovery, with strikes utilizing Iranian drones and Iran-backed armed groups disturbing peace, resulting in lives and injuries, and threatening to dissuade foreign investment. Separately, CENTCOM said that two US service members died as a result of an Iranian strike in Jordan on July 17 and that military troops subsequently discovered unidentifiable remains suspected to be those of a third service member who had been reported missing. An investigation to confirm the remains is continuing. CENTCOM said that it was concealing the identity of the deceased and missing service men out of respect for their families until the notification procedure was completed. Following years of conflict, Iraq has increasingly sought to position itself as a stable destination for international business. However, recurring regional hostilities have repeatedly exposed the country’s vulnerability to broader tensions between Iran and the United States, complicating Baghdad’s efforts to restore normalcy and sustain its economic recovery.