Iraq: French soldier killed in clashes with militants in the Al-Aith area of Salah al-Din Governorate, Aug. 28

Event

Security personnel clashed with Islamic State (IS) militants in the Al-Aith area of Salah al-Din Governorate, Aug. 28. The confrontation, which lasted through early Aug. 30, left one French soldier dead and four other soldiers, including two French personnel, wounded. The clashes were preceded by an airstrike on an IS position in the area. The French forces in Iraq form part of France's Operation Chammal which aims to train and support counter-terrorism forces in the region.

Context

Despite the territorial defeat of IS, militants aligned with the group continue to pose a threat in Iraq, particularly in Anbar, Baghdad, Diyala, and Kirkuk provinces. Attacks of various types and clashes with security forces are periodically reported. Following the Aug. 28 clashes, further counter-terrorism operations and confrontations are possible in the impacted area.