Several rockets target Basra Airport, close to where US Consulate is located

Numerous rockets were fired at Iraq’s Basra airport on Saturday morning following violent protests in the city. Officials said the sudden attack did not disrupt flights in or out of the city.

A local official at Basra International Airport said three rockets were fired at the facility, AP reported on Saturday. He told the news agency that no casualties had been reported and added that the attack did not disrupt air traffic.

Basra airport, the second largest in Iraq, is situated close to the US consulate in the city. Home to some 2.5 million people, which saw violent protests overnight.

Thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Basra on Friday, targeting major government buildings and setting them on fire. People in the city expressed anger about endemic corruption, rising unemployment, and a lack of basic utilities, such as drinking water.