Iraqi Army Brigadier, Soldier Killed in Bomb Blast During Operation in Kirkuk
Two other soldiers were wounded when an explosive device detonated during a search operation in Zghaytun Valley, following airstrikes targeting suspected remnants of ISIS in the area
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — An Iraqi Army brigadier and a soldier were killed, while two other soldiers were wounded, when a planted explosive device detonated during a military operation in southern Kirkuk province on Wednesday morning, an Iraqi Army source told Kurdistan24.
The incident occurred in Zghaytun Valley as Iraqi forces were conducting a sweeping, search, and inspection operation, according to a source holding the rank of lieutenant colonel who spoke to Kurdistan24.
The source confirmed that an officer holding the rank of brigadier and a soldier were killed in the explosion, while two additional soldiers sustained injuries.
The operation followed airstrikes carried out by Iraqi warplanes on Tuesday against several positions used by suspected remnants of the Islamic State (ISIS) in the same area, the source said.
Security forces immediately arrived at the scene following the blast, and the bodies of the deceased and the wounded soldiers were transported to hospitals in central Kirkuk, according to the source.
ISIS Remnants Remain a Security Concern in Kirkuk
The incident underscores the continuing security challenges facing Iraqi forces in areas where ISIS remnants are believed to maintain a presence, particularly in rural and rugged terrain that can complicate search operations and security patrols.
Although ISIS lost its territorial control in Iraq in 2017, remnants of the group have continued to pose security threats through sporadic attacks, ambushes, and the use of improvised explosive devices against security forces.
The disputed territories between the Iraqi federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), including Kirkuk, have remained a focus of counterterrorism operations.
Security gaps between Iraqi and Kurdish forces in some areas have historically complicated efforts to prevent militant movements and re-establish sustained security control.
Iraqi forces continue to conduct search operations and airstrikes against suspected ISIS hideouts in these areas. The latest explosion highlights the risks military personnel face during ground operations, even after suspected militant positions have been targeted from the air.
Further details about the circumstances of Wednesday’s blast and the identities of the victims had not been provided in the initial account.