Iraq Popular Mobilization Units Members Killed in Base Blast

An explosion rocked Kalsu military base, located south of Baghdad, overnight, resulting in the tragic death of one member of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) and injuring eight others. The PMU, also known as Popular Mobilization Forces, is a predominantly Shiite paramilitary force with Iranian backing. The blast site was under the PMU's responsibility, as confirmed by Muhannad al-Anazi, a member of the Security Committee in Babylon Governorate.

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The cause of the explosion remains undetermined, with Israeli and US officials denying involvement. This incident occurred shortly after a military strike on Iran, attributed to Israel. The explosion and ensuing fire occurred around 1 a.m. local time at Kalsu base, which serves as both a military base and a headquarters for the Iraqi army and police.

According to the Iraqi army's statement, no drones or aircraft were detected in the vicinity during the incident. A committee will be formed to investigate the circumstances surrounding the blast. The PMU reported the explosion at the Kalsu military base in the Al-Mashrou district on the highway, north of Babylon Governorate, resulting in material losses.

Unlike other Iran-backed groups, the PMU maintains close ties with the local government and is associated with Iran-aligned Shiite factions that wield significant political influence in Iraq. This event unfolds amidst heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Israel engaged in conflict with Hamas in Gaza and escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran.

Following the blast, Israeli officials denied involvement, while US Central Command refuted claims of conducting airstrikes in Iraq. In 2016, the Iraqi parliament officially recognized the PMU as a government entity operating alongside the Iraqi military. The PMU, an umbrella organization comprising various forces, including Kataib Hezbollah, holds significant influence within Iraq's political landscape.