ISIS remains a persistent threat in Iraq years after its defeat
In a recent offensive, Iraqi forces launched a military operation targeting ISIS positions in southern Kirkuk province.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Iraqi army has intensified military operations against ISIS fighters in southern Kirkuk province, as security forces remain on high alert to prevent infiltration from neighboring Syria. Despite the defeat of ISIS, officials warn that the threat persists within the country, particularly in the Hamrin Mountain range and the southern Kirkuk province.
Nashat Shawes, a member of the Security and Defense Committee of the Kirkuk Provincial Council, highlighted persistent ISIS activity in areas such as Wadi Zghetoon, Wadi Khanajir, and Bridge Awashra. "Not a week goes by without security forces bombing ISIS targets in Wadi Zghetoon," Shawes told Kurdistan24. He noted that Iraqi military points in these areas witness regular movements and operations aimed at neutralizing the terrorist threat.
In a recent offensive, Iraqi forces launched a military operation targeting ISIS positions in southern Kirkuk province. Shwan Muhammad, a member of the Political Bureau of the Kurdistan Toilers' Party, confirmed that the Iraqi Security Media Cell announced the deaths of several ISIS fighters in the Haija and Hamrin areas. "This proves ISIS controls a large geographical area despite ongoing operations," Mohammed said.
Security analysts caution that while the Iraqi army continues to secure the border with Syria, ISIS fighters maintain mobility within Iraq, moving between Daquq and the Hamrin mountain range. Observers stress the need for sustained military pressure to prevent ISIS from regaining strength in the region. The continued existence and activity of ISIS cells underscores the group's ability to exploit Iraq's complex terrain and security gaps even years after their formal defeat.
