Mystery drones crash across northern Iraq, spark fears of coordinated attacks

At least three drones crashed across northern Iraq, sparking concern amid a recent surge in unmanned aerial activity targeting sensitive infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region. While no group has yet claimed responsibility, the incidents are being closely examined by regional security forces.

In a statement released by the Kurdistan Region’s Counter-Terrorism Directorate, authorities confirmed that a booby-trapped drone crashed at approximately 5:50 a.m. in the Rizgari subdistrict of Khabat, located in Erbil province. No injuries were reported, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

Local sources had earlier said that two drones had fallen—one in the village of Korgosk and another on the rooftop of a café in Rizgari. Video footage from the scene appeared to show drone debris scattered in civilian areas, though the extent of material damage remains unclear.

In a separate incident, a third drone crashed in Hihewa village, situated in the Hawija district southwest of Kirkuk. According to security officials, the crash did not result in casualties or property damage, but it has triggered an ongoing investigation.

The spate of drone incidents comes amid growing security concerns across the Kurdistan Region, which has been the target of several aerial attacks in recent weeks. Some of these attacks have reportedly focused on critical energy infrastructure, raising fears of potential disruptions and further destabilization.

While the perpetrators of crashes have not been identified, the timing and geographic spread of the incidents have fueled speculation that they may be part of a coordinated campaign, either by regional militias or external actors.

By Vafa Guliyeva