Drone Attacks Target Erbil and Sulaymaniyah as Vessel Hit Near Iraqi Port

Baghdad, March 12, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) — Drone attacks were launched late Wednesday toward the northern Iraqi cities of Erbil and Sulaymaniyah, authorities said.

One intercepted drone fell near the Divan Hotel Erbil within the Saad Abdullah Conference Hall complex, a site frequently used for high-level political meetings.

Separately in southern Iraq, an oil vessel flying the Australian flag was struck near Khor Al-Zubair Port, according to two Iraqi navy officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The attack occurred in a loading area within Iraqi territorial waters. Officials said 25 crew members were rescued, while it remained unclear if additional crew were unaccounted for.

Videos circulating online showed a large vessel engulfed in flames with heavy smoke rising into the sky.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks.