An Italian military base in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq was struck by a missile overnight, according to a statement released by the Italian Ministry of Defense on Wednesday. The attack targeted a facility in Erbil, the capital of the autonomous Kurdish region, though authorities confirmed that no Italian soldiers were killed or injured.
The ministry said the missile impacted the base area during the night, prompting immediate security and monitoring measures by Italian forces stationed at the site. Details about the type of missile used or the origin of the attack have not yet been disclosed.
In a message posted on the social media platform X, the Italian Ministry of Defense confirmed the strike and reassured that all personnel stationed at the base were safe. The ministry also stated that Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto remained in constant contact with senior military commanders following the incident to assess the situation and ensure the safety of Italian troops.
Italian forces are deployed in the Kurdistan Region as part of international missions aimed at supporting local security forces and contributing to regional stability. The base in Erbil hosts military personnel involved in training and advisory roles linked to operations against extremist groups in Iraq.
Although the attack did not result in casualties, the strike has raised concerns about the security situation in northern Iraq, where foreign military facilities have periodically come under attack amid broader regional tensions. Erbil has previously been targeted by missiles and drones in incidents linked to ongoing geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East.
Local authorities in the Kurdistan Region have not yet issued a detailed statement about the overnight strike, and investigations are underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the attack. Security forces in the area reportedly increased patrols and monitoring after the incident.
Italian officials emphasized that the situation is being closely monitored and that appropriate security procedures are in place to protect personnel stationed at the base. The Ministry of Defense noted that coordination with coalition partners and local authorities continues as part of ongoing efforts to maintain stability in the region.
Defense Minister Crosetto’s direct communication with military commanders underscores the seriousness with which Rome is treating the incident, even though the immediate threat to Italian soldiers appears to have been contained.
Military analysts note that attacks on foreign military sites in Iraq have occurred intermittently over recent years, often linked to regional rivalries and conflicts that extend beyond Iraq’s borders. These incidents have highlighted the challenges faced by international forces operating in the region.
For now, Italian authorities say operations at the Erbil base continue as planned while security assessments are carried out in the aftermath of the missile strike.
