Investigation launched following explosion at Kalsu military base

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - The Iraqi Security Media Cell has indirectly refuted speculations regarding an attack on the Kalsu military base in Babil, stating that a technical committee has been convened to probe the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire.

According to Iraqi Security Media Cell, an explosion occurred within the confines of the Kalsu military base in northern Babylon province, resulting in the loss of life of one member of Popular Mobilization Force (PMF) units.

Additionally, eight PMF soldiers were reported injured, sustaining different range of injuries, also including an Iraqi army soldier.

The swift response of Babil Civil Defense teams successfully contained the fire, while efforts to ascertain the precise cause of the explosion and subsequent fires are underway through the establishment of a specialized technical committee.

In an effort to dispel allegations of external involvement, the US Central Command (CENTCOM), in a post on the X account, reiterated their non-involvement in any military operation in Babil province.

“We are aware of reports claiming that the United States conducted airstrikes in Iraq today. Those reports are not true. The United States has not conducted air strikes in Iraq today,” the statement read.

We are aware of reports claiming that the United States conducted airstrikes in Iraq today. Those reports are not true. The United States has not conducted air strikes in Iraq today.

— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 20, 2024

Furthermore, the Iraqi Air Defense Command asserted that no unfamiliar fighter jets or drones were detected during aerial surveillance preceding the explosion in Babil. They affirmed their commitment to transparency, promising to disclose the findings of the investigation upon its completion.

As authorities continue their investigation, questions surrounding the circumstances of the explosion persist, underscoring the need for clarity and accountability in addressing security incidents within Iraq's borders.

The Kalsu military base holds strategic significance within the region, serving as a focal point for military operations and security initiatives. Incidents such as the recent explosion underscore the ongoing challenges facing Iraq's security apparatus, amidst internal and external pressures.

Read More: Explosions rock Kalsu Military Base south of Baghdad

The presence of various security forces and paramilitary groups within the base highlights the complex dynamics at play in Iraq's security landscape, with competing interests and allegiances often influencing decision-making and responses to security threats.

Efforts to maintain stability and security in Iraq are further complicated by external actors and regional tensions, which can exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and undermine efforts to foster peace and stability.

As authorities conduct their investigation into the explosion at Kalsu military base, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the persistent security challenges facing Iraq and the importance of vigilance and cooperation in addressing them.

A series of explosions rocked the Kalsu military base, located 20 kilometers south of Baghdad, on Saturday April 20 at around 2:00 AM local time, leaving the area engulfed in chaos and uncertainty.

According to an Iraqi security source, the sound of the explosions was deafening, underscoring the intensity of the attack. The source revealed that Popular Mobilization Forces (Hashd al-Shaabi) had been utilizing the base to store weapons and ammunition, potentially indicating a strategic target for the assailants.