US-led coalition fighters attacked the Iraqi forces for what would be the first friendly fire episode. This was announced by the country's Ministry of Defense.
The incident occurred near Amariyat al-Fallujah, west of Baghdad. Nine soldiers were injured in the raid. There would be at least one dead person.
"The Coalition fighters were called in the area to support the ground forces. In a previous attempt, Iraqi air forces had to abandon the operational theater due to bad weather conditions. The first two Allied fighter raids were successful, with many victims in the ranks of the enemy. Our troops then reduced the distance with the enemy, pushing themselves forward until they almost fought hand-to-hand. During the third raid, from the sky it was impossible to distinguish the enemy from loyalist troops, which is why we were also hit by the Coalition bombs ".
An investigation has already been opened - added by the joint Coalition task force - all our air strikes in Iraq are conducted with the approval of the government, in order to help him in their fight against the Islamic State. As for the air campaign, this is the first unfortunate case of friendly fire ever since we are engaged in Operation Inherent Resolve.
(photo: US Air Force)
