Iraq Security Summary 12th September 2024

12th September Iraq Weekly.pdf

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Over the past week, Iraq has experienced a series of events, particularly in the areas of security, diplomacy, and internal governance. The situation in northern Iraq remains kinetic, with continued Turkish military operations targeting the PKK and related groups. On 10th September, a Turkish airstrike struck the Makhmour refugee camp, injuring three women, one of whom is in critical condition. The camp, which houses around 12,000 Kurdish refugees, has been targeted in the past due to Turkish allegations of a PKK presence.

On the same day, the Afrin Liberation Front, a Kurdish militant group composed of fighters displaced from Afrin, Syria, claimed responsibility for killing eight Turkish mercenaries in northern Syria.

Further incidents involving Turkish forces were reported earlier in the week. On 9th September, a Turkish soldier was killed during clashes with PKK members in the Gara region of northern Iraq. Turkish aircraft also conducted strikes near Aqra Dam and targeted PKK positions in the Pshdar district of Sulaymaniyah. Additionally, on 8th September, five PKK members were killed in an airstrike in the Avashin region of northern Iraq.

This continued Turkish military activity follows a statement by the Turkish Ministry of Defense on 6th September, which announced that 27 PKK members had been killed in a series of airstrikes between 2nd and 6th September across several regions, including Metina, Zap, Kara, Hakurk, Qandil, and Asos.

On 6th September, Kurdish politician Najat Najm al-Din voiced concerns over Turkey’s ambitions in Iraq, particularly regarding the city of Mosul. He referenced the Turkish government’s "National Charter," which views Mosul as part of its historical territory, expressing fears that Turkey’s influence and military presence will persist in the region until Mosul is brought under its control. Al-Din was also critical of Iraq’s passive response to Turkey’s activities, which include the establishment of more than 80 Turkish military bases and airstrips in Iraqi territory.

The Iraqi government is continually forced to deal with internal security challenges. On 10th September, a demonstration took place in Tahrir Square, Baghdad, demanding amendments to the government salary scale. Additionally, a bombing incident involving a tuk-tuk delivery occurred in the Al-Shaala area of Baghdad, resulting in the deaths of two individuals, including an Iraqi soldier. While initially feared to be a terrorist attack, the incident was later classified as a criminal act.

Meanwhile, operations against ISIS continue across the country. On 7th September, Iraqi Air Force F-16s carried out a strike in the Hamrin Mountains, killing three ISIS members. This was followed by a ground operation, which uncovered weapons, explosive belts, and other materials linked to the group. The Hamrin Mountains, alongside areas such as southern Kirkuk, have become hotspots for ISIS sleeper cells, which continue to exploit the region’s difficult terrain and security gaps. The Popular Mobilisation Forces also played a critical role in targeting ISIS cells in the Kirkuk area, where four explosive devices and a vehicle used by militants were discovered.

On the diplomatic front, Iran's President Pezeshkian visited Iraq ahead of his participation in the United Nations General Assembly. During his visit, he held talks with Iraqi leaders, signing 14 memoranda of understanding across various sectors, including economic cooperation, cultural exchanges, agriculture, and tourism. Both Iraq and Iran reaffirmed their shared stance on regional issues, particularly the conflict in Gaza.

Domestically, Prime Minister Al-Sudani addressed the Iraqi public on 8th September, focusing on the government’s efforts to address economic and social challenges. He cited progress in energy production, unemployment reduction, and anti-corruption measures, though these claims come amidst ongoing issues such as corruption within the government. Al-Sudani also played up Iraq’s autonomy in managing its security, particularly in reducing reliance on international forces, despite the continued need for collaboration with the US in anti-ISIS operations.

We see more evidence that Iraq is grappling with a growing drug crisis. Al-Sudani has prioritised enhancing the country’s anti-narcotics capabilities, with a particular focus on controlling the trafficking of captagon, a stimulant produced and trafficked in the region. Iraq is seeking to strengthen cooperation with neighbouring countries and international partners to combat the spread of drugs, while also improving domestic rehabilitation facilities.

In summary, the past week has seen a continuation of Turkish military actions in northern Iraq, further clashes with ISIS, and notable political and diplomatic developments.

Looks like it’s business as usual.

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