At least one drone launched at Israel from Iraq, US officials report

Iraqi groups have been deploying one-way drones aimed at Israel, forcing interception by US and partner forces, two American officials told The Associated Press.

The officials, including a US defense official and a regional security official, said these drone attacks have been ongoing since the Hamas assault on Israel on 7 Octboer 2023. 

Drone attacks have grown more frequent, now averaging around five per day, and recently peaked at eight in a single day.

The US and allies have been intercepting these drones, according to the officials, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitivity of the information. The regional security official suggested that these continued drone launches may raise the likelihood of a direct Israeli response to the attacks.