IS used chemical rocket in attack on troops in Iraq, U.S. confirmsSeptember 23, 2016 - 10:37 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - A rocket launched by Islamic State militants at American troops based in Iraq did contain a mustard agent, the U.S. military has confirmed, according to BBC News. No-one was hurt in Tuesday, September 22's attack on the Qayyarah air base near the IS stronghold of Mosul. Marine Gen Joseph Dunford, chairman of U.S. joint chiefs of staff, said the group's capability to deliver chemical weapons was rudimentary. But the attack, he added, was a "concerning development". IS has long been suspected of making and using crude chemical weapons in Iraq and Syria, where it also controls territory. Gen Dunford told the U.S. Senate armed services committee on Thursday that the rocket had contained a "sulphur-mustard blister agent". Mustard agent in sufficient quantities can maim or kill by damaging skin, eyes and airways. Mosul, Iraq's second largest city, has been under IS control for the past two years and the battle to retake it is expected to begin in the coming weeks. U.S. troops are providing assistance to local forces as they prepare for the offensive. Photo: AFP Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Cyprus parliament honors Armenian genocide victims Acting House President Zacharias Koulias noted that April 24 marks the “black anniversary” of the Armenian genocide. Armenia PM, France envoy discuss regional matters Issues related to the consistent development of Armenia-France cooperation were discussed. Azerbaijan razes historic Armenian church to ground Azerbaijan has demolished the historic Armenian Church of St. John the Baptist (known as Kanach Zham). Russia to begin assessing migrant workers' speaking skills Rosobrnadzor is planning to change the Russian language exam for migrant workers and include an assessment of speaking skills |