CNN is reporting that ISIS forces have launched a chemical weapons attack against U.S. and Iraqi forces. A shell containing mustard gas reportedly landed near Qayarrah air base. Blessedly, no American forces were injured in the attack. U.S. officials are describing the shell as poorly weaponized and ineffective:
The shell was categorized by officials as either a rocket or artillery shell. After it landed on the base, just south of Mosul, US troops tested it and received an initial reading for a chemical agent they believe is mustard.No US troops were hurt or have displayed symptoms of exposure to mustard agent.
One official said the agent had "low purity" and was "poorly weaponized." A second official called it "ineffective."
A US defense official said troops had gone out to look at the ordnance after it landed. Based on seeing what they thought was a suspect substance, two field tests were conducted.
CNN added that these attacks with chemical agents were “expected,” as U.S and Iraqi forces are attempting to retake the city of Mosul.