Airport in Basra struck by rockets: Security source

By Ali Javad

BAGHDAD (AA) - Two rockets on Friday morning fell near the air-traffic control towers at Iraq’s Basra International Airport without causing casualties, according to an Iraqi security source.

“Two Katyusha rockets fell at dawn today [Friday] near the air-traffic control towers used for securing the Basra International Airport," a security officer at the airport told Anadolu Agency anonymously due to restrictions on speaking to media.

"The rocket attack did not cause any casualties," the source said, adding that the airport’s air-traffic control towers had been temporarily evacuated.

“But the situation has since returned to normal,” the source added.

Since July 9, Iraq’s Shia-majority southern and central provinces -- especially Basra -- have been rocked by popular protests which at one point spread to capital Baghdad.

Demonstrators demand improved public utilities, especially water and electricity; more employment opportunities; and an end to alleged government corruption.