A drone attack has struck an oil facility operated by a British company in Erbil, triggering a major fire and sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky, according to local media reports.
Footage shared by Rudaw English showed large columns of grey smoke rising from the site after the strike. The extent of damage and any casualties have not yet been officially confirmed.
The incident comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions involving Iran and Western allies. Tehran has recently warned it may target foreign military installations in the region, including those linked to the United Kingdom and the United States.
Iran’s ambassador to the UK, Seyed Ali Mousavi, said bases associated with US operations could be considered legitimate targets if hostilities continue to intensify.
The strike in Erbil follows a broader wave of regional unrest, with reports of drone and missile activity across Gulf countries. Authorities in Kuwait, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have reported attacks or interceptions, while infrastructure damage and casualties have been recorded in some areas.
Meanwhile, geopolitical risks are also rising around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Iranian lawmakers are reportedly considering new restrictions on transit through the waterway, including potential tolls and limits on vessels linked to the US and Israel.
The developments have heightened concerns over global energy security, as the Strait of Hormuz handles a significant share of the world’s oil shipments.
Further updates are expected as regional leaders and international stakeholders respond to the rapidly evolving situation.
