The US State Department confirmed there was a mortar attack near the US embassy in Iraq.

Officials say the embassy was not impacted and that staffers are taking appropriate safety precautions.

Sources say the attack came from Baghdad Area Zayoona, which is associated with Asae'b Ahlil Al Haq, an Iraqi Shi'a paramilitary group backed by Iran.

An official said reports of possible explosions outside of the Green Zone in Baghdad are being followed.

The State Department confirmed to the Washington Free Beacon there was a mortar attack near the United States embassy in Iraq on Thursday.

A video captured a series of sixteen explosions which can be seen lighting up the night sky.

US officials confirmed a series of explosions near the US embassy in the Green Zone in Baghdad.

An official on the ground said reports of possible explosions outside of the Green Zone in Baghdad are being followed.

Officials say the embassy has not been impacted and that US staff are taking appropriate safety precautions and prioritizing the safety of Americans on the ground.

Sources say the attack came from Baghdad Area Zayoona which is well known for control of Asae'b Ahlil Al Haq, an Iraqi Shi'a paramilitary group backed by Iran. The group was active during the Iraqi insurgency and in the Syrian Civil War. The mortars used in the attack are identified as 120mm which are considered heavy mortars and could cause extensive damage.

Sources believe the Iranian-backed group is responsible for the attack.

Iranian-backed forces have long been operating in Iraq and have obtained US arms. Iran continues to solidify its presence in Iraq, which it considers a key strategic location.