“We reaffirm that this is a terrible development that will do damage to Iraq’s interests and put the country state in danger, especially when terrorists are a real danger and a threat to Iraqi security and policy” Barzani said in a statement, referring to Islamic State (IS) militants.

“In order to beat them, we need the help and support of the Global Coalition [to Defeat IS]. We plead with the authorities to find the attackers, bring them to court, and prevent these attacks and offenses from happening, which only create more chaos and complicate the situation.”

The attack on the base north of Baghdad was carried out with an estimated 18 107 mm Katyusha rockets, which were fired from a truck a few miles from the base.

In a statement, the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) also condemned the attack and called for maximum restraint by all sides.

“These ongoing attacks are a clear and substantial threat to the country, and the risk of rogue action by armed groups remains a constant concern,” it said, adding that it was a distraction from “urgent unfinished domestic business.

“The last thing Iraq needs is to serve as an arena for vendettas and external battles,” it added.”

Following the attack, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and they “underscored that those responsible for the attacks must be held accountable,” the State Department said according to Reuters.

Rocket attacks on bases hosting coalition troops are relatively routine. Washington usually blames them on Iran-backed militias.

Reporter’s code: 50101