Iraq Thwarts Drone Attack on Al-Imam Ali Air Base

Iraqi security forces successfully intercepted and shot down two unidentified drones late Saturday night as they attempted to target a military site within the Al-Imam Ali Air Base in Dhi Qar Governorate.

Precision Interception

According to a statement from the Security Media Cell issued in the early hours of Sunday, March 1, 2026, the drones were detected by advanced defense systems at approximately 10:50 PM local time. The systems engaged the targets immediately in accordance with standard defense protocols.

Officials confirmed that there were no casualties or material damage reported following the incident.

Investigating the Source

The Joint Operations Command has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the origin of the drones and the motives behind the attempted strike. While no group has officially claimed responsibility, the incident follows a wave of regional instability and similar drone sightings in the nearby Basra Governorate, where a radar station was also reportedly targeted.

This attempted strike at the Al-Imam Ali base (also known as Tallil Air Base) comes during a period of heightened military activity across the Middle East, with Iraqi officials reinforcing security measures at all vital installations to prevent further incursions.