Iraq: Turkish airstrike in Kurdistan region kills one and wounds six June 25 /update 5

Event

A Turkish airstrike in Iraq's Kurdistan region killed one person and wounded six others on Thursday, June 25. The strike occurred on Thursday evening (local time) in a rural area north of Sulaimaniyah. The casualties were reportedly all members of the same family whose vehicle was hit by the strike.

Further Turkish military operations are expected in the Kurdistan region over the near term.

Context

Turkey has faced a Kurdish insurgency since 1984, spearheaded by the Kurdistan Worker's Party (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.

Turkey launched its latest cross-border military operation, dubbed "Operation Claw-Tiger", into Iraq's Kurdistan region on June 17, targeting suspected members of the PKK. Since the operation was launched, at least five civilians have been killed, as well as one PKK fighter and two Turkish soldiers.

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.