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Iraq security forces dismantle missile platform intended to target Baghdad airport

BAGHDAD, IRAQ - SEPTEMBER 18: An Iraqi Airways Boeing 737 sits on the tarmac at Baghdad International Airport September 18, 2004 Baghdad, Iraq. National carrier Iraqi Airways launched its first international flight in 14 years since U.N. sanctions were imposed on Saddam Hussein. Iraqi Airways is said to be launching scheduled flights to neighbouring Syria and Jordan twice a week. (Photo by Wathiq Khuzaie/Getty Images)

An Iraqi Airways Boeing 737 sits on the tarmac at Baghdad International Airport September 18, 2004 Baghdad, Iraq [Wathiq Khuzaie/Getty Images]

A security source in Iraq on Friday revealed that a missile platform had been dismantled that was intended to target the Baghdad International Airport.

In a statement to Anadolu Agency, Baghdad police officer Hatem Al-Jaberi confirmed: “The security forces found a launch platform containing three rockets, which was intended to target the Baghdad International Airport. The security forces dismantled the rocket launcher.”

As of 10:20 GMT, Iraqi authorities had not issued a statement regarding the incident.

Baghdad International Airport includes the Camp Victory Army Base, which accommodates US soldiers and is often the target of frequent missile attacks.

The last missile attack on the airport was carried out on 2 May, when two rockets were launched towards the facility without causing casualties.

Read: Iraq militia chief arrested over attacks on base hosting US forces

Washington accuses armed Iraqi factions affiliated with Iran of being responsible for the attacks on the airport, its embassy and military bases, in which US soldiers are deployed.

Armed Shia factions, including the Iran-backed Iraqi Hezbollah Brigades, have threatened to target the sites of US forces if they do not withdraw in compliance with the decision issued by the Iraqi Parliament at the beginning of last year. The decision taken by Parliament stipulated ending the presence of foreign forces in the country.

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