Peshmerga, Iraq’s CTS Destroy 18 ISIS Hideouts

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a significant military operation aimed at dismantling remaining ISIS strongholds, the Kurdistan Region’s Peshmerga forces and Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS) launched a coordinated assault on Friday, targeting terrorist hideouts in the Qarachogh mountain range.

According to an official statement released by the Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service (CTS), the joint operation resulted in the destruction of 18 ISIS positions and seven tunnels, which were being used as operational bases by the terrorist organization.

Military sources confirmed that the operation aimed to disrupt ISIS movement and eliminate logistical support structures in the rugged mountainous terrain, which has long served as a sanctuary for insurgents.

The Peshmerga forces and Iraqi CTS units, backed by intelligence coordination, engaged in a series of tactical assaults, ensuring that key positions were neutralized.

Discovery of Equipment and Terrorists Remains

During the course of the operation, military equipment and remnants of several ISIS terrorists were discovered at the targeted sites.

The statement did not specify the exact number of casualties but emphasized that the discovered remains indicated a significant impact on ISIS operational capabilities in the region.

The Qarachogh mountain range, stretching across the Makhmour district, has remained a volatile area where remnants of ISIS have sought refuge, launching sporadic attacks on security forces and local populations.

The region’s rough terrain and natural cave systems have provided strategic hideouts for ISIS militants, making it a priority target for joint Kurdish Peshmerga and Iraqi military operations.

This latest offensive follows a series of counter-terrorism operations in recent months, underscoring the ongoing collaboration between the Peshmerga and Iraqi security forces in eradicating the lingering ISIS threat.