Iraq beefs up security around air base in country's west

An Iraqi general said Sunday that security has been beefed up around Ain al-As air base, a sprawling complex in western Anbar desert that hosts U.S. forces, following a series of attacks.

Maj. Gen. Ra Mahmoud told Associated Press that investigations were still underway to determine who was behind unclaimed attacks on bases across Iraq, including one earlier this month in which five rockets landed inside Ain al-As.

A U.S. defense contractor was killed Friday in a rocket attack at a different Iraqi military compound near Kirkuk where U.S. service members are based. Several American and Iraqi troops were also wounded.

U.S. officials said attack involved as many as 30 rockets. U.S. officials have for most part blamed Iran-backed fighters for se attacks.

Iraq has been roiled since Oct. 1 by anti-government protests that have left more than 450 people de. vast majority of those who died were demonstrators killed by security forces firing tear gas and live ammunition. mass uprisings prompted resignation of former Prime Minister el Abdul-Mahdi late last month.

Meanwhile, Iraqi Joint Operations Command anunced Sunday start of a military operation to pursue remnants of Islamic State group in five different areas in country.

eighth phase of operation, code named “Will of Victory,” would cover areas in Mosul, Kirkuk, Diyala, Salahdin, and al-Jazeera provinces.

paramilitary Popular Mobilization Forces and local tribal militias are also participating in operations, with air cover from Iraqi air force and Coalition air force, according to a statement issued Sunday.

Iraq declared victory over IS two years ago, but y still carry out sporic attacks in parts of country.