BAGHDAD/WASHINGTON (HRNW): In a major strategic shift, the U.S. military has begun preparations to evacuate Victoria Base (formerly Camp Victory) near Baghdad International Airport. According to reports from Al Arabiya and regional security sources on March 24, 2026, the move comes as the facility faces an unsustainable surge in attacks from Iranian-backed militias.
The evacuation process has reportedly been marked by a “scorched earth” policy, with U.S. personnel seen destroying sensitive weaponry and heavy equipment on-site. This measure is intended to prevent advanced military technology from falling into the hands of hostile groups as the security perimeter around the airport deteriorates.
Escalation and Security Breakdown
The decision to withdraw follows a series of high-intensity strikes as part of the wider “Second Iran War”:
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Intense Missile Barrages: Over the past 48 hours, the base has been targeted by multiple waves of ballistic missiles and “suicide” drones. Reports indicate that at least one major building within the complex was struck, causing casualties among security personnel.
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Iranian “True Promise” Operations: The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that its “Operation True Promise 4” successfully penetrated regional air defenses, specifically targeting U.S. hubs like Victoria and Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia.
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Loss of Confidence: Internal reports suggest a growing sense of vulnerability among U.S. troops in Iraq, with many expressing disillusionment over inadequate protection against the Iranian arsenal.
Wider Diplomatic Fallout
The situation in Baghdad has reached a boiling point, prompting several diplomatic consequences:
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Foreign Mission Withdrawals: Following the U.S. decision for an “ordered departure” of non-essential personnel, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and Qatar have also begun reducing their diplomatic presence in the capital.
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Iraqi Government Reaction: The Prime Minister’s office has summoned both the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires and the Iranian Ambassador to protest the violation of Iraqi sovereignty, as the country increasingly becomes a primary battlefield for the two powers.
While NATO has already confirmed a temporary relocation of its non-combat mission from Iraq, the departure from Victoria Base—once the headquarters for U.S. operations in the country—marks one of the most significant territorial concessions since the conflict began in late February.
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