Iraq: Iranian forces carry out attacks against Kurdish targets in Kurdistan region June 17

Event

Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) forces carried out artillery attacks against Kurdish targets for a second consecutive day in Alanah, located in the Haji Omran district (Erbil province, Kurdistan region), on Wednesday, June 17. According to media sources, the IRGC targeted members of the Komala Party of Iranian Kurdistan and the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI) opposition groups. There were no immediate reports of casualties, although shelling destroyed farms in the area. The Iranian shelling coincided with operations by Turkish aircraft in the area. Reports indicate that IRGC personnel conducted similar attacks on Tuesday, June 16.

Further Iranian and Turkish operations against Kurdish positions in northern Iraq are likely in the near to medium term. Retaliatory attacks are also a possibility in the near term.

Advice

Individuals in Iraqi Kurdistan are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.

The security environment in Iraq remains complex. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to all travel.