Iraq Based Factions silent on Turkish advances

The recent escalation of Turkish military operations in northern Iraq, particularly under Operation Claw-Lock, has brought about significant destruction to PKK positions through relentless airstrikes and ground incursions.

Despite the aggressive Turkish presence, Iraq based militia factions, known for their defense of sovereignty and hostile stance towards coalition forces, have remained conspicuously silent on the matter.

The Turkish military has a long-standing history of operations in northern Iraq, targeting the PKK, an organisation designated as terrorist by Turkey, the U.S., and the EU. The ongoing Operation, which began in April 2022, marks a heightened phase of these efforts, characterised by frequent strikes that have resulted in substantial PKK casualties and infrastructure damage.

The Iraqi central government and the Kurdish Regional Government have a complicated relationship with both Turkey and the PKK. While the PKK operates from within Iraqi Kurdistan, the KRG and the Iraqi government must balance their security concerns with maintaining diplomatic relations with Turkey, a key ally and trade partner.

Moreover, the divisions within Iraqi militia factions play a role. These groups are not a uni-party but a ragged coalition with different loyalties and objectives.

Some factions, especially those with ties to Iran, may prioritise other regional conflicts or political agendas over confronting Turkey, with disunity weakening any collective response to Turkish incursions.

Domestic stability is another pressing concern. Iraq is grappling with political instability. In this context, Iraqi militias may prefer to focus their resources and rhetoric on internal issues and lower hanging fruit like Israel or the USA, rather than engaging in a conflict with Turkey.

International pressure and diplomatic calculations also cannot be ignored. The international community, particularly the U.S. and the EU, views the PKK as a terrorist organisation. Open opposition to Turkish operations against the PKK might result in diplomatic and economic repercussions for Iraq from these key international players.

There is also the sheer scale and sophistication of Turkish military operations, featuring advanced air and ground capabilities, they present a formidable challenge. Engaging with Turkey militarily could lead to severe losses, a risk that Iraqi militias might be unwilling to take.