Drone shot down over Erbil, second group intercepted, security source says

ERBIL, Iraq — A drone was shot down over Erbil, the administrative center of the Kurdistan Region in northern Iraq, a security source said, while a separate group of drones approaching the city's airspace at the same time was also intercepted. No official statement has been issued on the affiliation of the downed aircraft. Security forces launched a wide-ranging inspection in the area following the interception and continued search operations targeting suspected elements, according to the same source. The source added that authorities have increased measures to protect civilian areas. Erbil has faced repeated drone incursions in recent months, though the latest incident underscores the persistent security challenges facing the region.