October 2017 - Iraq Special Weapons News

Strikes Continue in Effort to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 31 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting eight strikes consisting of 14 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by General Jarrard via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 31 Oct 2017 -- Presenter: Major General James B. Jarrard, commander, Special Operations Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve; Eric J. Pahon, Defense Department Spokesman
Iraqi PM: Anbar to be freed from Daesh in days Press TV 31 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abad has said that the country's western Anbar province will be fully liberated from Daesh in "a few days."
Iraqi army takes control of Turkey border gate from Kurds: Turkish PM Press TV 31 Oct 2017 -- Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildrim says Iraqi army forces have taken control of a key border crossing with Turkey in the Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region after weeks of tensions between Baghdad government and Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) over last month's non-binding independence referendum.
Iran will lift border restrictions with Iraq's Kurdistan soon: Top commander Press TV 30 Oct 2017 -- A senior Iranian commander says the country will remove its border restrictions with Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region "in the coming days," lifting curbs imposed after last month's independence referendum in the region.
Iraqi premier calls on Kurdish people to abide by law after outbreak of riot Press TV 30 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has called for "calm" and "adherence to law" in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region following an outbreak of riot there after Massoud Barzani, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG)'s president, announced that he would effectively step down early next month.
Kurdistan's Barzani fires parting shots at US Press TV 30 Oct 2017 -- Masoud Barzani, who resigned as the president of Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region on Sunday, has delivered pointed remarks against the United States for ditching its putative allies, the Kurds.
Barzani Stepping Down, Elections to Help Unite Forces in Parl't - Kurdish Party Sputnik 30 Oct 2017 -- A representative of the Kurdistan Democratic Party has revealed to Sputnik the balance of power in Iraqi Kurdistan and plans on regional elections after Barzani's resignation. The US State Department has also commented on the developments in the Iraqi autonomous region following the independence vote opposed by Baghdad.
Political Transition in Iraqi Kurdistan Region US Dept. of State 30 Oct 2017 -- The United States commends the decision of Masoud Barzani not to seek an additional term as President of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region and the vote of the Iraqi Kurdistan Parliament to distribute presidential authorities to other Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) institutions
US Commends Kurdish Leader Barzani for Stepping Down VOA 30 Oct 2017 -- The United States is commending Masoud Barzani's decision to step down from his position as president of Iraq's Kurdistan region.
Analysts: Turkey May Pay Heavy Price for Iraqi Kurdish Leader's Resignation VOA 30 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani's announcement he plans to step down was greeted with jubilation in Turkey's pro-government media. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused Barzani, his once close ally, of betrayal for his decision to hold an October independence referendum.
Iraq to deploy soldiers to key Kurdistan border crossing Press TV 29 Oct 2017 -- Members of the Iraqi Federal Police force are going to be deployed to a key border crossing in the country's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region after Iraqi government forces and Kurdish Peshmerga fighters reached an agreement in a bid to resolve a conflict about control of border crossings.
Protesters storm Iraqi Kurdistan's parl. as Barzani resigns Press TV 29 Oct 2017 -- Angry demonstrators, some carrying clubs, have reportedly stormed the parliament of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region in the region's capital city of Erbil as the Kurdish lawmakers approved a request by president of the Kurdistan Regional Government, Massoud Barzani, to step down early next month.
Iraqi govt. forces, Kurdish Peshmerga fighters begin fresh talks Press TV 29 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi government forces and Kurdish Peshmerga fighters have launched a second round of negotiations in a bid to resolve a conflict about the control of border crossings in the country's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region two days after the two sides reached an agreement to stop fighting.
Iraqi Kurdistan Outgoing President Vows to Continue Fight for Kurds' Rights Sputnik 29 Oct 2017 -- Amid the grave consequences of a controversial independence referendum in the autonomous region of Kurdistan, its leader Masoud Barzani decided to step down from the presidency.
Iraqi Kurds Storm Parliament After Leader Steps Down VOA 29 Oct 2017 -- Protesters in Irbil stormed the parliament building Sunday after Iraqi Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani announced he is stepping down as president of the self-ruled northern Kurdish region.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 28 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting eight strikes consisting of 15 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Barzani won't extend term beyond Nov. 1: Kurdish official Press TV 28 Oct 2017 -- President of Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Massoud Barzani will not extend his presidential term beyond November 1, says a Kurdish government official.
US calls counter-terrorism Iraqi forces 'terrorists' Press TV 28 Oct 2017 -- As an official branch of the Iraqi armed forces, the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), also known by its Arabic name Hashd al-Sha'abi, has been a bulwark against Daesh terrorism in Iraq soon after the terrorist group launched an offensive in the Arab country in 2014.
Federal Iraqi forces peacefully retake Kurdistan borders after deal with Iraqi Kurds Press TV 28 Oct 2017 -- Federal Iraqi forces have peacefully taken control of all border crossings ringing the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) following an agreement with Kurdish authorities.
Iraq's Kurdish Parliament to Redistribute Powers From Barzani VOA 28 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi Kurdish parliament will meet Sunday to redistribute powers away from President Massoud Barzani, who is under pressure to step down following an independence referendum last month.
Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 27 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 10 strikes consisting of 18 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Army forces advancing into last den of Daesh in Iraq: Prime minister Press TV 27 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi says his country's "heroic legions" are advancing into the "last den" of the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group in the Arab country and will liberate the few remaining towns and villages from the grips of the terror outfit soon.
US Backtracks on Iraqi, Kurd Cease-fire Claim VOA 27 Oct 2017 -- The U.S.-led coalition fighting the Islamic State announced Friday morning a cease-fire between Iraqi forces and the Kurdish Peshmerga in Northern Iraq, but quickly backtracked on the claim, saying it is not an "official" cease-fire.
UN Security Council reaffirms support for Iraq's integrity after Kurdish vote Press TV 26 Oct 2017 -- The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has "reaffirmed" support for Iraq's territorial integrity amid tensions between the central government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in the wake of a highly controversial independence referendum the semi-autonomous region held last month in open defiance of Baghdad.
Kurdistan's offer to freeze referendum result will not redress damage: Turkey Press TV 26 Oct 2017 -- Turkish authorities say an offer by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to freeze the results of last month's independence referendum is not enough, saying the move would not compensate for the damage caused by the controversial vote.
UN envoy 'confident' Baghdad and Erbil can work hand in hand to overcome differences UN News 26 Oct 2017 -- Even as Iraq breathes a sigh of relief with the defeat of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL or Da'esh), it has been hit by another crisis – one between Baghdad, the capital, and Erbil, in the Kurdistan region – the top United Nations official in the country has said.
Military Strikes Target ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 26 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 15 strikes consisting of 25 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraqi prime minister calls for total annulment of Kurdish independence vote Press TV 26 Oct 2017 -- Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has called for the total annulment of the recent Kurdish secession referendum in northern Iraq, apparently rejecting the Kurdish leader's recent decision to merely freeze the results of the unconstitutional vote.
Iraqi forces march on Daesh's last haven in the country Press TV 26 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi army has launched a three-pronged offensive aimed at liberating the final Daesh-held areas in the country's western Anbar province.
Coalition Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 25 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting seven strikes consisting of 13 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraq's Abadi in Turkey for talks on Kurds Press TV 25 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi has arrived in Turkey to discuss developments in the Arab country's Kurdistan region as Baghdad and Ankara seek stronger bonds to deal with the Kurdish independence drive.
Iran reopens border crossing with Iraq's Kurdistan Press TV 25 Oct 2017 -- Iran has reopened one of its border crossings with Iraq's northern Kurdistan region after closing the terminal at Baghdad's request in response to the secession referendum in the area.
Iraq forces prepare for final anti-Daesh offensive near Syria border Press TV 25 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces are set to begin operations to liberate the last patch of territory still occupied by Daesh Takfiri terrorists along the country's western border with Syria, the military says.
Iraq's Kurdistan Government Offers To 'Freeze' Independence Vote Results RFE/RL 25 Oct 2017 -- The regional government in Iraq's Kurdistan region has offered to "freeze" the results of last month's overwhelmingly approved independence referendum to prevent further violence and facilitate dialogue with Baghdad.
Iraqi Parl't Demanding to Clarify 'Freeze' on Kurdistan Independence Vote Sputnik 25 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi lawmaker Abbas Bayati has commented on a possible dialogue between Baghdad and Erbil amid reported proposal voiced the Kurdish side to "freeze" the result of the referendum that had taken place last month.
No Response Yet From Baghdad to Iraqi Kurds' Truce Proposal - Kurdish Official Sputnik 25 Oct 2017 -- An adviser to Iraqi Kurdistan's President Kifah Sinjari has spoken to Sputnik about Iraqi Kurdistan's position toward settling the conflict with the central government, following the September 25 independence referendum.
Erbil Proposes Baghdad to 'Freeze' Results of Independence Referendum Sputnik 25 Oct 2017 -- The Kurdistan Regional Government has offered Iraq's central government a ceasefire and to start a bilateral dialogue, expressing readiness to "freeze" the results of the region's independence referendum.
Iraqi Kurds Propose Setting Aside Referendum, Starting Dialogue VOA 25 Oct 2017 -- The government in Iraq's Kurdistan region offered Wednesday to freeze the results of an independence referendum and start dialogue with the central government in Baghdad in order to prevent any further violence between the two sides.
Kurds freeze independence vote, call for ceasefire Press TV 24 Oct 2017 -- The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has said that it will freeze the results of a recent vote for independence from Iraq.
Officials Release Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 24 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting five strikes consisting of six engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraq's Kurdistan to hold fresh elections in 8 months Press TV 24 Oct 2017 -- The parliament in the autonomous Iraqi region of Kurdistan has announced that legislative and presidential elections that were delayed due the ongoing political stand-off with Baghdad would be held in eight months' time.
Hashd al-Sha'abi commander calls for US forces withdrawal from Iraq Press TV 24 Oct 2017 -- A top commander of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces (Hashd al-Sha'abi) has called for the immediate withdrawal of US troops from Iraq after the elimination of Daesh Takfiri terrorists.
Tillerson Urges Iraqis, Kurds To Settle Differences, Commit To Country's Unity RFE/RL 24 Oct 2017 -- British Foreign Minister Boris Johnson says there is "absolutely no doubt" the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and world powers will survive despite the decision by U.S. President Donald Trump not to recertify the deal.
Iraqi Army Denies Claims of Clashes With Kurdish Peshmerga Near Syrian Border Sputnik 24 Oct 2017 -- The tensions between Baghdad and Erbil have escalated after an independence referendum had been held in the Iraqi Kurdistan, as well as in disputed areas.
Iraqi Kurd Elections Postponed for 8 Months VOA 24 Oct 2017 -- Elections for president and parliament in Iraq's Kurdistan will be delayed for eight months after political parties failed to present candidates, the regional parliament said Tuesday.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 23 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting 25 strikes consisting of 28 engagements between Oct. 21-22, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
UK steps up role as the fight against Daesh evolves UK MOD 23 Oct 2017 -- UK forces deployed at Al Asad Air Base will train further forward and provide increased force protection for UK personnel in and around coalition bases as Daesh continues its retreat across Iraq and Syria.
Elections in Iraq's Kurdistan region delayed as parties fail to present candidates Press TV 23 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has decided to postpone elections for the region's presidency and parliament as political parties still grapple with the aftermaths of a controversial independence referendum held in the semi-autonomous territory nearly a month ago.
Iraqi PM slams Tillerson's remarks on Hashd al-Sha'abi Press TV 23 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi's media office has criticized meddlesome comments made by US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson regarding the country's Popular Mobilization Units or Hashd al-Sha'abi.
Russia 'committed' to Iraq despite Kurdish oil ties: Lavrov Press TV 23 Oct 2017 -- Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov says Moscow is committed to Iraq's territorial integrity after the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) held a controversial plebiscite on secession.
Moscow Calls On Iraqi Kurds To Act In Cooperation With Baghdad RFE/RL 23 Oct 2017 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said that Moscow respects the aspiration of Iraqi Kurds to seek to assert their identity, but added that this must be done in "dialogue" with the federal government in Baghdad.
Tillerson In Iraq After Baghdad Dismisses Call For Iran-Backed Militias To 'Go Home' RFE/RL 23 Oct 2017 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has arrived in an unannounced visit to Iraq after the Shi'ite-led government dismissed his call for Iranian-backed militia fighters who helped Baghdad defeat Islamic State (IS) extremists to "go home."
Erbil Urges Baghdad to 'Immediately' Withdraw Troops From Kurdistan Territories Sputnik 23 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Kurdistan sticks to a peaceful resolution of the current confrontation with Baghdad.
Remarks at the Saudi Arabia-Iraq Inaugural Coordination Council Meeting US Dept. of State 22 Oct 2017
Iraqi fighter jets kill 25 Daesh militants near Syria border Press TV 22 Oct 2017 -- More than two dozen members of Daesh Takfiri terrorist group have been killed when Iraqi Air Force fighter jets bombarded their positions in the country's troubled western province of Anbar near the border with Syria.
Iraqi MPs seek halt to transfer of arms for Peshmerga Press TV 22 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's parliament has called for a halt to foreign transfer of arms to Peshmerga after reports that the Kurdish militants had used German weapons to attack government forces in Kirkuk.
Tillerson Promotes Closer Iraq-Saudi Ties VOA 22 Oct 2017 -- U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Sunday promoted improving ties between Saudi Arabia and Iraq as a way to counter Iran's growing military assertiveness in the region.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 21 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 11 strikes consisting of 11 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iranian General Reportedly Played Key Role In Swift Takeover Of Iraq's Kirkuk RFE/RL 21 Oct 2017 -- A top Iranian military commander traveled to northern Iraq to urge Kurdish leaders to withdraw from Kirkuk in a move that Kurdish officials said played an important role in enabling Iraq's government to swiftly retake control of the city from Kurds this week.
U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 20 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting eight strikes consisting of 13 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
State Dept. Urges Baghdad to Limit Movements in Disputed Areas in Kurdistan Sputnik 21 Oct 2017 -- The Department of State has issued a statement urging Iraq to restrict its military forces' movement in northern Iraq.
Ayatollah Sistani urges Iraq to protect Kurds amid tensions Press TV 20 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's most senior Shia cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani has called on the government to protect the Kurdish population in the north amid rising tensions between Baghdad and Iraq's secessionist Kurds.
Russia's Rosneft To Take Controlling Stake Of Iraqi Kurdish Oil Pipeline RFE/RL 20 Oct 2017 -- Russia's state-owned Rosneft oil company says it has agreed with the government of Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region to take a controlling stake in the region's main oil export pipeline.
Iraqi Troops Clash With Kurdish Peshmerga South Of Irbil RFE/RL 20 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi government troops have clashed with Kurdish Peshmerga fighters as government forces continued to deploy in parts of northern Iraq the Kurdish fighters captured from Islamic State (IS) militants during the past three years.
Situation Near Kirkuk, Iraq US Dept. of State 20 Oct 2017 -- "The United States is concerned by reports of violent clashes around the town of Altun Kupri in northern Iraq. We are monitoring the situation closely, and call on all parties to cease all violence and provocative movements, and to coordinate their activities to restore calm."
Iraqi, Kurdish Forces Battle for Remaining Disputed Territories VOA 20 Oct 2017 -- As night fell Friday, Kurdish Peshmerga tanks fired heavy artillery into the now-Iraqi held town of Altun Kopri while gunfire cracked at the town's entrance.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 19 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 12 strikes consisting of 15 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraq warns oil companies against Kurdistan deals Press TV 19 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's oil ministry has cautioned oil companies against signing contracts with authorities in the semi-autonomous Kurdish region without its approval.
Iraqi court issues arrest warrant for Kurdistan's vice president Press TV 19 Oct 2017 -- An Iraqi court has issued an arrest warrant for the vice president of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), accusing him of provocation against the Arab country's armed forces, which managed to take over Kirkuk province earlier this week.
Kurdish region never wanted war with Iraqi army: KRG foreign minister Press TV 19 Oct 2017 -- The foreign minister of Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has said that the semi-autonomous region has never intended to engage in a confrontation with the Iraqi military.
Iraqi Oil Ministry Warns Foreign Companies Against Contracts With Kurdistan Sputnik 19 Oct 2017 -- According to the Iraqi government, the authorities seek to provide a safe environment for the activity of international companies and are protecting their investments throughout the country following the independence referendum in Iraqi Kurdistan.
Kurdistan's Peshmerga Hopes to Receive Foreign Help to Resolve Crisis Sputnik 19 Oct 2017 -- Kurdistan's Peshmerga Ministry's Secretary General says that an international intervention in region's disputes needed to resolve the crisis around Iraqi Kurdistan's independence referendum.
Peshmerga: Iraqi Military Advancing in Two Areas Disputed With Kurds Sputnik 19 Oct 2017 -- Kurdish Peshmerga Ministry reports Iraqi military's offensive in Diyala province and nearby the Mosul Dam.
Rival Parties Trade Blame Over Kirkuk Amid Fears of Kurdish Split VOA 19 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Kurdistan's two main political families and their supporters traded accusations of blame Wednesday for the Iraqi army's easy takeover this week of the city of Kirkuk and other disputed areas in northern Iraq, which the Kurds seized from the Islamic State terror group three years ago.
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 18 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting seven strikes consisting of eight engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraqi Kurdistan vote postponed as 'civil war' looms large Press TV 18 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has decided to postpone the presidential and legislative elections in the northern semi-autonomous region amid spiraling tensions with the Baghdad government in the wake of last month's Kurdish independence referendum and a dire "threat of civil war" there.
Ankara supports united Iraq, Turkish prime minister says Press TV 18 Oct 2017 -- Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim has reiterated his country's unwavering support for united Iraq amid spiraling tensions between the Baghdad government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in the wake of last month's Kurdish independence referendum.
Kurdish forces withdraw to June 2014 line: Iraqi commander Press TV 18 Oct 2017 -- A senior Iraqi military commander says Kurdish Peshmerga forces have pulled back to the positions they held in June 2014, before the Daesh Takfiri terrorist group swept through the Arab country.
Russian Oil Giant Rosneft Says Signs Production Deal With Iraqi Kurdistan RFE/RL 18 Oct 2017 -- Russian state-owned oil giant Rosneft says it has signed a production-sharing agreement with Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region worth up to $400 million.
Divide & Conquer: Daesh Advances Amid Rift Between Baghdad, Kurdish Authorities Sputnik 18 Oct 2017 -- A source from the Iraqi Security Forces has told Sputnik that Daesh militants have taken advantage of the political crisis between Baghdad and Kurdish authorities in Erbil, and have freely advanced into recently liberated villages in Kirkuk province.
Iraqi Prime Minister Sees Kurdish Autonomy Referendum Problem as 'Passed Stage' Sputnik 18 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi announced that he had brought the idea to Iraqi Kurdistan's leadership that the referendum would harm their own interests.
Iraq: Security Council voices concern over reported violence in Kirkuk UN News 18 Oct 2017 -- The Security Council on Wednesday expressed concern over recent reports of violence near the city of Kirkuk in northern Iraq.
State Department: Kirkuk Crisis 'Not Over by Any means' VOA 18 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's military said Wednesday its forces recaptured control of more areas from Kurdish fighters, including the Mosul Dam, after carrying out an operation to reclaim the city of Kirkuk and oil fields in the northern part of the country.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Colonel Dillon via teleconference from Baghdad, Iraq DoD 17 Oct 2017 -- Presenter: Colonel Ryan Dillon, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve Spokesman; Major Adrian Rankine-Galloway, Pentagon Spokesman October 17, 2017
OIR Spokesman: ISIS Faces Devastating Defeat on 3rd Anniversary of Operations AFPS 17 Oct 2017 -- The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria is now on the verge of a devastating defeat in Raqqa, Syria, the Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve spokesman said today.
Iraq Recaptures More Kirkuk Oil Fields VOA 17 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces advanced rapidly through the northern reaches of the country Tuesday, recapturing territory and the two largest oil fields from Kurds, virtually ending their hopes for an independent state.
Kurdish Officials Blame Iran as Disputed Territories Fall to Iraqi Forces VOA 17 Oct 2017 -- Officials of the Kurdistan Regional Government are accusing Iran of playing a key role in the fall of disputed territories in northern Iraq including the oil-rich city of Kirkuk, a claim rejected by Iranian officials.
Strikes Continue in Effort to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 17 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, conducting three strikes consisting of three engagements in recent days, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraqi army retakes control of Sinjar IRNA 17 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi army managed to take control of the town of Sinjar in eastern Mosul from the Kurdish forces of Iraqi Kurdistan Democratic Party without any clash with the Kurdish forces early Tuesday.
IRGC has no role in operations in Kirkuk: Velayati ISNA 17 Oct 2017 -- Iranian Supreme Leader's top adviser emphasized that Iran has no role in the operations in Kirkuk and most of the Kurdish people of Iraq are against the ambitious attempt of Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) President Masoud Barzani.
US 'not taking sides' in Iraqi-Kurdish dispute: Trump Press TV 17 Oct 2017 -- The United States is not taking sides in an Iraqi-Kurdish dispute, claims President Donald Trump, as Iraqi forces have taken control of the Kurdish-held city of Kirkuk.
Iraqi forces reestablish security in Kirkuk after pushing out Kurds Press TV 17 Oct 2017 -- Thousands of civilians have returned to the Iraqi city of Kirkuk after fleeing as government forces pushed Kurdish militants out of the oil-rich city and established security.
U.S. 'Very Concerned' By Reported Violence Around Kirkuk RFE/RL 17 Oct 2017 -- Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi says the independence referendum held last month in Iraq's Kurdish autonomous region is "a thing of the past" after government forces seized territory from Kurds across the north of the country.
Iraqi Forces Take Over Town of Sinjar as Peshmerga Leaves Positions - Reports Sputnik 17 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi army is still advancing forward in the Kurdish areas, striving for independence.
Is the Dream Of Kurdish Independence Now Over? VOA 17 Oct 2017 -- The independence dream of Iraq's Kurds may be over. It was felled by a lightening advance by Iraqi counter-terror units, trained and equipped by the United States, and Shi'ite militias, trained and equipped by Iran, who seized the disputed city Kirkuk and its surrounding oilfields after isolated skirmishes and a withdrawal order by Peshmerga commanders.
Iraqi Forces Seize Kirkuk Oil Fields, Recapture Kurdish Territory VOA 17 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces advanced rapidly through the northern reaches of the country Tuesday, recapturing territory and the two largest oil fields from Kurds, virtually ending their hopes for an independent state.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 16 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting ten strikes consisting of 11 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Coalition Monitors Military Movements Near Kirkuk, Pentagon Spokesman Says AFPS 16 Oct 2017 -- Coalition military officials are monitoring military movements near Kirkuk, Iraq, following reports of an incident, Pentagon Director of Press Operations Army Col. Rob Manning told reporters today.
Kirkuk wells under Iraqi Federal Gov't control IRNA 16 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces captured Lilan region, Baba Gurgur oil wells, and the headquarters of the North Oil Company (NOC), northwest of Kirkuk.
Iraqi Kurd officials worried about Iran shutting borders IRNA 16 Oct 2017 -- Officials of Iraqi Kurdistan Region expressed concern over closure of Iranian border crossings with KRG.
Iraq says Iran closes border with KRG upon Baghdad request IRNA 16 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement announced that Iran has shut its border crossings with Iraqi Kurdistan Region at the request of Baghdad government.
Turkey ready to cooperate with Iraq to eradicate PKK from Kirkuk Press TV 16 Oct 2017 -- The Turkish government says it is ready to cooperate with the central Iraqi government against militants from the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) in the country's oil-rich northern province of Kirkuk, amid reports that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is allowing PKK terrorists to penetrate the city.
Baghdad warns Kurds not to cut oil flow after KRG halts crude production Press TV 16 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi government has warned the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) not to take any measure that would cause a crude oil flow disruption from Kirkuk oil fields as Kurdish authorities reportedly shut down some 350,000 barrels per day (bpd) of production from two major fields in northern Iraq.
Iraqi premier orders hoisting of national flag in Kirkuk, other Kurdish regions Press TV 16 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has ordered the hoisting of Iraqi national flag in the country's oil-rich northern province of Kirkuk as well as other areas under the control of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG).
Iraqi forces retake military base, strategic sites in Kirkuk Press TV 16 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces have gained control of the main military base in Kirkuk as well as other strategic locations in the oil-rich province from Kurdish fighters.
Iraqi Forces Enter Kirkuk As Thousands Flee RFE/RL 16 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces have entered the disputed city of Kirkuk and taken control of the provincial-council headquarters and key installations outside the disputed city, reports say.
U.S. Urges Iraqi, Kurdish Forces To Avoid Escalation After Reports Of Clashes Near Kirkuk RFE/RL 16 Oct 2017 -- U.S. officials urged Iraqi and Kurdish forces "to avoid additional escalatory actions" following reports of artillery clashes after Iraqi government troops moved in a "major operation" against Kurdish positions near the oil-rich city of Kirkuk.
Iraqi Government Accuses Kurds of 'Misinformation Campaign' After Kirkuk Clashes Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- Baghdad believes that the clashes between the Iraqi armed forces and Peshmerga fighters in Kirkuk have fallen victim to so-called fake news.
What We Know So Far About Baghdad's Operation in Kirkuk Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- Baghdad has launched a military operation in the northern province of Kirkuk, disputed by both the central government and Iraq Kurdistan, following the province's participation in the September 25 referendum on the autonomous region's independence.
Turkey Closes Country's Airspace for Iraqi Kurdistan Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- The Turkish Security Council recommended in an October 16 statement to close the country's airspace for Iraqi Kurdistan amid the ongoing clashes between Iraqi federal forces and Peshmerga fighters in Kirkuk, which joined Kurdistan's independence referendum on September 25.
Baghdad Goal in Kirkuk and Iraqi Kurdistan Is Protection of Locals - PM Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- Tensions between Baghdad and Kurdish authorities are on the rise due to the recent advance of the Iraqi army in Kirkuk and Iraqi Kurdistan regions. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider Abadi has explained the aim of the country's armed forces.
Iraqi Government to Pay Heavy Price for Kirkuk Campaign - Peshmerga Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- Hemin Hawrami, a senior assistant to Kurdish President Masoud Barzani has quoted the Peshmerga statement on the recent Iraqi troops' advance in the Kirkuk region. The statement was made after they managed to gain control over the K-1 military base, Kirkuk airport, two oil fields and over Kirkuk's irrigation system.
Iraqi Troops Capture Kirkuk Airport From Kurds - Statement Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- Tensions between Baghdad and Kirkuk have further escalated following the Iraqi Kurdistan's independence referendum with Iraqi troops conducting an operation in the region.
Iraqi Forces Seize Airbase From Kurdish Troops in Kirkuk Sputnik 16 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi military forces have reported the capture among several other positions of the K1 airbase from Kurdish troops in the Peshmerga-controlled province of Kirkuk in a bid to gain control of the oil-rich region after the independence referendum.
Kirkuk Shuttered as Iraqi Forces Advance on Kurdish Peshmerga VOA 16 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces shut down access both in and out of Kirkuk Monday as fighting with Kurdish Peshemerga forces grew worse.
Iraqi Forces Seize Key Sites in Kirkuk, Kurdish Stronghold VOA 16 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi government forces swept into the Kurdish-held city of Kirkuk on Monday, capturing the governor's office, key military sites and an oil field.
Iraqi forces take control of 'vast' regions in disputed Kirkuk Press TV 15 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces say they have taken control of "vast areas" of Kirkuk following clashes with Kurdish Peshmerga forces who had occupied the oil-rich region.
Report: Iraqi forces advance on Kurdish-held Kirkuk Press TV 15 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Forces have started to advance toward Kurdish-held Kirkuk, Reuters reports Kurdish and Iraqi officials as saying.
Iraqi govt.: PKK presence in Kirkuk amounts to declaration of war Press TV 15 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi government has accused authorities of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) of bringing militants from Turkey's outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) to the disputed oil province of Kirkuk, saying it considered the move as a "declaration of war."
Kurdish leaders reject Baghdad's demand to cancel referendum results Press TV 15 Oct 2017 -- Kurdish leaders have dismissed the Iraqi government's demand that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) annul the results of last month's independence referendum in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.
Nearly 700,000 Iraqis still displaced months after Mosul recapture: NGO Press TV 15 Oct 2017 -- An independent humanitarian organization says hundreds of thousands of people are still displaced from Iraq's strategic northern city of Mosul, which served as Daesh terror group's last urban bastion and its de facto capital in the Arab country, months after government forces and their allied fighters liberated it from the clutches of the extremists.
Iran denies closing land border with Iraq's Kurdistan region Press TV 15 Oct 2017 -- Iran has denied reports that the country has closed its land border with the semi-autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan Region in response to last month's independence referendum in the region.
Iraqi, Kurdish Troops In Tense Standoff As Deadline Nears RFE/RL 15 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi troops and Kurdish Peshmerga fighters were locked in an armed standoff in Kirkuk Province as tensions continue to rise following the holding of an independence referendum by Kurdistan officials last month.
Iran Denies Shutting Border Crossings With Northern Iraq RFE/RL 15 Oct 2017 -- Iran denies reports that it has closed border crossings with northern Iraq in response to an independence referendum in the autonomous Kurdish region last month.
Source in Iranian Foreign Ministry Denies Closure of Border With Iraqi Kurdistan Sputnik 15 Oct 2017 -- Earlier in the day, Iran's Tasnim news agency said Iran had closed its border with Iraqi Kurdistan. Tehran has refuted the report as false.
Iraq's Kurdish Leadership Rejects Baghdad Demand to Cancel Independence Vote Sputnik 15 Oct 2017 -- The demand by the Iraqi authorities to cancel the results of the Iraqi Kurdistan independence referendum has been rejected by Erbil.
Shots Fired in Flashpoint City as Iraqi, Kurdish Forces Stand Off in Kirkuk VOA 15 Oct 2017 -- On the road out of Kirkuk city, Kurdish Peshmerga forces are massed on a bridge, overlooking the countryside. Just over a nearby bream, Popular Mobilization Unit (PMU) soldiers whip down a street in large pick-up trucks, while Iraqi Army tanks lay quiet, parked in fields with their weapons pointed at Kurdish forces.
Military Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 14 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting four strikes consisting of four engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Hashd al-Sha'abi's Turkmen fighters, Kurdish forces clash in Iraq's Salahuddin province Press TV 14 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Turkmen fighters from the Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) have engaged in a two-hour gun battle with Kurdish forces in the country's central province of Salahuddin as tensions remain high between Kurdish and Turkmen political parties in the wake of last month's independence referendum in the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.
Iraq tells Peshmerga to pull out from Kirkuk: Kurdish official Press TV 14 Oct 2017 -- A senior Iraqi Kurdish official says the Baghdad government has set a deadline for Kurdish forces to withdraw from positions in the oil-rich northern Kirkuk Province, which have been under their control over their past three years.
U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 13 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 29 strikes consisting of 29 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Over 1,000 Terrorists Have Crossed Iraqi Border to Syria - Russian MoD Sputnik 13 Oct 2017 -- As the Syrian army continues its successful offensive against terrorists, crushing Daesh militants near the cities of Deir ez-Zor and al Mayadin, more extremists enter the country from the areas in Iraq that are controlled by the US-led coalition, according to the Russian military.
Kurdistan deploys tens of thousands of forces to oil-rich Kirkuk Press TV 13 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region has deployed tens of thousands of Peshmerga forces to the Kirkuk region amid tensions with the central government over a controversial secession referendum it held last month.
Kurdistan Sends Peshmerga Troops to Kirkuk Amid 'Threats' by Iraqi Army Sputnik 13 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi Army's military operation south of the Kirkuk province is not directed against the Kurdish Peshmerga paramilitary forces, an aide to the governor of the disputed province, Abdurrahman Talabani, said.
Civilians who fled Mosul still vulnerable, need assistance - UN official UN News 13 Oct 2017 -- One year since the start of the military campaign to retake Mosul from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL/Da'esh) terrorist group, the United Nations Humanitarian Coordinator said hundreds of thousands of people are vulnerable and still need assistance.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 12 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 31 strikes consisting of 39 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
OIR General: Will to Drive ISIS Evil Out Grows Every Day in Iraq AFPS 12 Oct 2017 -- Since the beginning of the fight to wrest back Mosul from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the Iraqi security forces have accelerated the fight against ISIS and the will to drive ISIS evil out of Iraq grows every day, the commander of Operation Inherent Resolve ground forces said today.
US Coalition Denies Accusation of Reduced Intensity in Fight Against Daesh Sputnik 12 Oct 2017 -- The US-led anti-Daesh coalition has not decreased its presence or the intensity of its actions in Iraq and is continuing to combat terrorism in the region, the coalition's spokesman told Sputnik on Thursday.
Iraqi premier denies army, allies plan attack on Kurdish Peshmerga forces Press TV 12 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi has denied an attack plan against the positions of Kurdish Peshmerga forces amid ongoing tensions between the central government in Baghdad and authorities of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region.
Kurdistan willing to hold talks with Iraqi officials over existing row: KRG Press TV 12 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has expressed willingness to hold negotiations with the Iraqi government regarding their dispute over the restrictions that Baghdad has imposed on the semi-autonomous region.
Iraqi Government Refutes Info on Possible Offensive in Kirkuk Province Sputnik 12 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi authorities deny any plans on launching a military operation in Kirkuk province. The official spokesperson for the Iraqi government disavowed on Wednesday the Kurdistan Region Security Council's accusation of preparing a large-scale offensive by Baghdad to regain authority over the disputed region.
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 11 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 16 strikes consisting of 22 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraqi Kurdistan Accuses Baghdad of Preparing Military Operation in Kirkuk Sputnik 11 Oct 2017 -- The authorities of Iraqi Kurdistan have said that federal forces are preparing a "major attack" on Kirkuk, a province contested by both Baghdad and Erbil, which has taken part in the referendum despite the backlash from Iraqi authorities.
Military Strikes Continue Against ISIS Terrorists in Syria, Iraq AFPS 10 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 11 strikes consisting of 15 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
ISIS Fighters Continue to Flee, DoD Spokesman Says AFPS 10 Oct 2017 -- Islamic State of Iraq and Syria fighters remain on the run in Iraq and Syria as coalition troops clear territory once controlled by the enemy, a Pentagon spokesman said today.
Update: air strikes against Daesh UK MOD 10 Oct 2017 -- The RAF are continuing to take the fight to Daesh in Iraq and Syria.
Abadi says Daesh to be completely defeated in Iraq this year Press TV 10 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi says the Daesh Takfiri terrorists group will be totally defeated in the Arab country until the end of the current year.
Iraqi warplanes kill 17 Daesh militants near Syria border Press TV 10 Oct 2017 -- A high-ranking Iraqi military official says more than a dozen Daesh Takfiri terrorists were killed when Iraqi Air Force fighter jets bombarded their positions in the country's troubled western province of Anbar near the border with Syria.
Turkey May Impose New Sanctions on Iraqi Kurdistan Over Referendum - PM Sputnik 10 Oct 2017 -- Turkey's Prime Minister has stated that new sanctions may be introduced by Ankara, Baghdad and Tehran against Iraqi Kurdistan.
UN concerned for safety of more than five million displaced in northern Iraq UN News 09 Oct 2017 -- As the Iraqi offensive in and near Hawija in Kirkuk Governorate is drawing to a close, the United Nations and its humanitarian partners expressed deep concern on Monday for the safety of civilian populations in the region.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 09 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria over the last two days, conducting 95 strikes consisting of 109 engagements Oct. 7 and yesterday, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraqi army forces find Daesh mass grave west of Ramadi Press TV 09 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi forces have found a mass grave in the country's troubled western province of Anbar containing the remains of nearly two dozen Daesh Takfiri militants killed during heavy clashes with government forces and their allies during the campaign for the liberation of the strategic city of Ramadi.
Baghdad launches probe into Kurdish region's hefty oil revenues Press TV 09 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's central government has launched a probe into the hefty oil revenues of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), further seeking to seize key businesses in the separatist northern region two weeks after the Kurdish leaders held a highly controversial referendum to secede from the Arab country in open defiance of Baghdad.
Iraqi govt. to put Kurdistan-based mobile networks under control Press TV 09 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi government has decided to impose control over mobile phone operators in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region and to relocate their headquarters to Baghdad as part of punitive measures taken in response to last month's secession referendum in the region.
MP: Iraq's partition Iran, Turkey, Iraq red-line IRNA 08 Oct 2017 -- Chairman of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Commission Alaeddin Boroujerdi said on Sunday that disintegration of Iraq is deemed as red-line for Iran, Turkey and Iraq.
Iraq to prosecute 100 European Daesh members Press TV 08 Oct 2017 -- Iraq is to prosecute at least 100 European Daesh terrorists, most of whom face the death penalty, says Belgium's ambassador to the country.
Erbil, Baghdad Agree on Lifting Anti-Kurdish Sanctions Sputnik 08 Oct 2017 -- The Kurdish Regional Government and Baghdad have agreed to de-escalate the tensions over the recent Kurdish autonomy independence referendum and engage in a dialogue.
KDP Media: Kurd Leader Barzani, Iraqi Speaker Meet VOA 08 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi parliament speaker Salim al-Jabouri has met with Kurdish president Masoud Barzani, two weeks after Kurds in Iraq voted in a symbolic referendum for independence, Kurdish media reported.
Iraqi Hashd al-Sha'abi forces uncover 10 mass graves near Hawijah Press TV 07 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi pro-government fighters from the Popular Mobilization Units have found nearly a dozen mass graves containing bodies of security forces and civilians, who are believed to have been executed by Daesh Takfiri terrorists, on the outskirts of the recently-liberated town of Hawijah in Kirkuk province.
Officials Provide Details of Latest Strikes Against ISIS AFPS 06 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 44 strikes consisting of 65 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iran reiterates need to preserve Iraq's territorial integrity IRNA 06 Oct 2017 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Friday underlined the necessity to maintain Iraq's national unity and territorial integrity.
Turkey says will continue negotiations with Iran on Iraqi Kurdistan IRNA 06 Oct 2017 -- Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bekir Bozdag said on Friday that the developments in the Iraqi Kurdistan region are a threat to regional security and that Ankara will continue negotiations with Tehran and international community in this regard.
Iran FM urges maintenance of Iraq territorial integrity, unity Press TV 06 Oct 2017 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif has once again stressed the importance of preserving Iraq's national unity and territorial integrity after a controversial independence referendum was held in northern semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.
U.S., Coalition Continue Strikes to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 05 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 37 strikes consisting of 47 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Turkey to close borders with Iraqi Kurdistan 'soon': Erdogan Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says his country will "soon" shut its border and airspace to the Iraqi Kurdistan Region in response to a controversial referendum on possible secession of the semi-autonomous region from the rest of the country.
Iraqi Security Forces Liberate Hawija From ISIS Control AFPS 05 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi security forces have completed a "swift and decisive" victory in liberating the city of Hawija from the grasp of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials said today.
France ready for mediation between Baghdad and Iraqi Kurds: Macron Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- French President Emmanuel Macron says Paris is ready for mediation between Iraq and its Kurdish region seeking secession from the mainland, emphasizing the need to protect the Arab country's "territorial integrity."
Iraqi PM, military announce Hawijah liberation from Daesh Press TV 05 Oct 2017 -- Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi says Iraqi armed forces have liberated the strategic town of Hawijah, ridding the Takfiri outfit of its last bastion in the northern part of the Arab state.
The Way the Caliph Crumbles: Baghdad Wrests Daesh's Last Urban Stronghold Back Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- After two weeks of fierce fighting, Daesh has been chased from the northern Iraqi city of Hawija by coalition forces. The city was Daesh's final urban center in Iraq, leaving them in control of only a handful of settlements in the war-torn Middle Eastern nation.
Iraq's PM Urges Kurdish Peshmerga Forces to Join Iraqi Army After Referendum Sputnik 05 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's Prime Minister Haider Abadi has announced he did not want an armed conflict with Iraqi Kurds but said they should obey Baghdad authorities in the wake of the controversial referendum on independence in the autonomous region.
Iraqi Army, Allied Shiite Forces Enter IS-held Hawija VOA 04 Oct 2017 -- The Iraqi army and members of the Shiite Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) have entered the town of Hawija in an operation to oust Islamic State from its last stronghold in northern Iraq, commanders on the ground told VOA.
Inherent Resolve Strikes Target ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 04 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 39 strikes consisting of 40 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Iraqi army soldiers, allies take back more areas near Hawijah from Daesh Press TV 04 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi army forces, backed by allied fighters from the Popular Mobilization Units, have fully liberated more areas near the strategic northern town of Hawijah from the clutches of Daesh militants, as they have launched a final assault to retake the terrorists' last bastion in the country's oil-rich northern province of Kirkuk.
Meeting In Tehran, Iranian And Turkish Presidents Stress Opposition To Kurdish State RFE/RL 04 Oct 2017 -- The presidents of Iran and Turkey say their countries will take steps to ensure that borders in the region remain unchanged following last week's independence referendum in Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region.
Erdogan Accuses Israel's Mossad of Supporting Iraqi Kurdistan Referendum Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday that Israel's intelligence agency Mossad supported Iraqi Kurdistan's referendum on independence as only Israel would recognize the Kurdish administration.
Closing Border With Iraq Will 'Damage Interests' of Iran and Turkey Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- Iran has said it had closed border checkpoints with Iraqi Kurdistan in response to its referendum and in respect to the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the neighboring country. Salih Meleomer, an advisor to the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government told Sputnik the move could damage the interests of both Turkey and Iran.
Iraqi Army Launches Offensive to Free Daesh-Held Hawija in Kirkuk - Reports Sputnik 04 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's army has reportedly launched an operation to drive Daesh militants out of the town of Hawija located in the country's north. At the same time, a Shia militia group has announced it had taken control of the town.
UN Warns of Intensified Fighting in Hawija, Anbar VOA 03 Oct 2017 -- The United Nations has warned that many innocent lives could be endangered in the coming days as the Iraqi army and its allied Shi'ite militias continue to press for the last pockets of Islamic State in Hawija and Anbar.
Strikes Continue in Effort to Defeat ISIS in Syria, Iraq AFPS 03 Oct 2017 -- U.S. and coalition military forces continued to attack the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria yesterday, conducting 14 strikes consisting of 14 engagements, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.
Secessionist efforts in Iraq detrimental to Middle East: Iran defense minister Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- In the wake of the secessionist bids of the Kurdistan region of Iraq, Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Amir Hatami says the Islamic Republic is opposed to disintegration of Iraq and any change in the country's geographical borders.
Daesh defense line collapses in Hawijah as Iraqi forces liberate more villages Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- A high-ranking commander of the Iraqi pro-government Popular Mobilization Units says the defense lines of Daesh Takfiri militants have collapsed in the northern town of Hawijah as army troops and their allied fighters have adanaced dozens of kilometers, seizing nearly three dozen villages from the terrorists.
Turkey to impose more sanctions on Kurdistan over secession vote: Erdogan Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says Ankara would impose further sanctions on Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in light of the September 25 referendum on the independence of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region.
Iraqi ex-president, veteran Kurdish politician Jalal Talabani dies at 83 Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- Former Iraqi president and leader of the country's Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) Jalal Talabani has died at the age of 83 in Germany, his party officials say.
Iran Shuts Border With Iraqi Kurdistan in Respect to Iraqi Territorial Integrity Sputnik 03 Oct 2017 -- Iran has closed border checkpoints with Iraqi Kurdistan as Tehran attaches great importance to preserving sovereignty and territorial integrity of the neighboring country.
Iraq: UN migration agency assists thousands newly displaced from west Anbar UN News 03 Oct 2017 -- With some 8,500 people displaced over the past two weeks amid Iraq's military operations to retake Anbar province, the United Nations migration agency announced today that it is stepping up provision of life-saving assistance.
Iran, Iraq launch joint military drills Press TV 03 Oct 2017 -- Iran and Iraq have started out joint military maneuvers in the Islamic Republic's west and northwest to practice providing security for their common borders.
Iran, Turkey back Iraq's integrity, voice opposition to Kurdish secession Press TV 02 Oct 2017 -- The military brass of Iran and Turkey have voiced their opposition to the separation of Iraq's Kurdish region and expressed support for the country's territorial integrity.
Iraq's Hashd al-Sha'abi forces retake 18 villages near Hawijah Press TV 02 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi fighters from Popular Mobilization Units have regained control over more than a dozen villages near town of Hawijah as they engage in joint military operations with army troops to purge Daesh Takfiri terrorists from their last bastion in the country's oil-rich northern province of Kirkuk.
Iran's FM calls for Kurdish talks with Baghdad Press TV 02 Oct 2017 -- Iran says a recent controversial secession referendum in the northern Iraq runs counter to the Arab country's constitution, calling on Kurdish authorities to negotiate with Baghdad regardless of the outcome of the vote.
Iran, Iraq Hold Joint Drill Near Iraqi Kurdish Region RFE/RL 02 Oct 2017 -- Iran says its military has held a joint military drill with the Iraqi armed forces amid tensions over a recent referendum on independence in Iraq's autonomous Kurdish region.
Any change in borders spreads insecurity, instability in region: Rouhani Press TV 02 Oct 2017 -- Iran's President Hassan Rouhani has stressed the need to bolster central governments in Syria and Iraq, saying that any change in geographical borders will cause insecurity and instability to spread across the region.
Iran, Iraq to hold joint military drills along Kurdistan region border ISNA 02 Oct 2017 -- A senior Iranian military commander announced that Iran and Iraq will hold joint military exercises along their border with the Kurdistan region in the coming days.
Nasrallah: Secession of Iraqi Kurdistan threat to entire region IRNA 01 Oct 2017 -- Lebanese Secretary General Seyyed Hassan Nasrallah pointed to the plot hatched to divide the region by separation of Iraqi Kurdistan Region, describing it a threat to the entire region.
Iraqi army, allies recapture over dozen villages near Hawijah Press TV 01 Oct 2017 -- Iraqi government forces and allied fighters from Popular Mobilization Units have established control over more than a dozen villages near the northern town of Hawijah.
'Sheikh of snipers' killed in battle to retake Hawijah Press TV 01 Oct 2017 -- Iraq's Hashd al-Sha'abi says the group has lost a valued sharpshooter during the battle to retake the northern town of al-Hawijah from the Takfiri terror group of Daesh.
Netanyahu Denies Israeli Involvement in Iraqi Kurdistan Referendum Sputnik 01 Oct 2017 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reputiated the Turkish claims of Israeli involvement in the Kurdish referendum in Iraq.
Islamic State Militants Attempt Ambush in Mosul VOA 01 Oct 2017 -- Mosul's Old City is covered in rubble and virtually abandoned. Entire blocks are destroyed and many families still haven't found the bodies of their relatives under the crushed buildings.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

October 2017 - Iraq Special Weapons News