Iraq: Turkish airstrikes target Kurdish militant positions in northern Iraq on June 14 /update 1

Event

On Sunday, June 14, Turkish jets struck Kurdish militant targets in various areas of northern Iraq. The strikes, part of Operation Claw Eagle, targeted numerous Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) positions in Qandil, near the Iranian border, as well as in areas of Sinjar, Zap, Avasin-Basyan, and Hakurk.

Further Turkish airstrikes against Kurdish targets in northern Iraq are likely in the near to medium term.

Context

Turkey has faced a Kurdish insurgency since 1984, spearheaded by the PKK, which was renewed in 2015 following the dissolution of a ceasefire. The conflict has left over 40,000 people dead since 1984 and associated violence continues to pose a significant security risk in southeastern Turkey. Turkish forces have reportedly killed dozens of PKK militants in northern Iraq since the beginning of their offensive against Kurdish militants in the region in March 2018.

Advice

Individuals in northern Iraq 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.