Iraqi F-16 aircraft carried out three strikes on suspected ISIS hideouts in Kirkuk province. The operation followed a ground inspection of an earlier strike area and came after a clash in which an ISIS member and a Counter-Terrorism Service first lieutenant were killed. The report shows that small insurgent cells remain active despite the group’s territorial defeat.
The Interior Ministry planned a phased transfer of city, district and checkpoint duties from the Iraqi army to local police. Police officials said they were ready, while military commanders favored a gradual handover because of ethnic sensitivities and the continuing ISIS threat. Many residents reportedly prefer locally recruited police, but the transition requires careful coordination and political confidence.
Iraq’s Defense Ministry said a projectile struck the Kirkuk airbase and started a fire that was brought under control. No casualties were reported, and officials said the facility was used only by Iraqi aircraft. The incident occurred amid heightened regional tensions, but authorities reported no major operational damage.
