Iraqi National Security Service Discovers Explosive Drone in Kirkuk

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Iraq's National Security Service announced on Friday, Nov. 6, 2026, that its personnel had discovered an explosive-laden drone in Kirkuk and destroyed it in a controlled detonation conducted in coordination with Iraqi Army engineering teams.

The agency published footage of the operation on its official X account, saying the device was located during a security operation guided by intelligence information and close monitoring on the ground.

According to the statement, the drone and its explosive payload were detonated at the location where they were found, away from populated areas. The service did not report injuries or damage to nearby residential areas.

The authorities did not identify the drone's origin, disclose its model or provide details about who may have placed or operated it. The agency also did not say when the device was first discovered or whether it had been intended for a particular target.

The National Security Service described the operation as part of its continuing efforts to identify and address potential security threats. It said its personnel would remain vigilant in responding to dangers that could affect public safety.

It also issued a warning to residents who encounter suspicious or unfamiliar objects, urging them not to approach or handle such items. Instead, citizens should contact the National Security Service or other official security authorities so that trained personnel can examine them.

Kirkuk, a Kurdistani territory outside the Kurdistan Regional Government's administrative control, has featured in earlier security concerns involving unmanned aircraft. Previous attacks on locations in central Erbil, including the US Consulate, involved explosive-laden drones that were reported to have been launched from the Kirkuk area by militia groups.

However, the security service has not linked the device found on Friday to those incidents or attributed it to any armed organization.

The discovery also comes after the withdrawal of US and international coalition forces from Iraq and the Kurdistan Region at the end of September. Recent concerns have focused on renewed activity by ISIS sleeper cells in Kirkuk and Garmian, although officials have not connected the discovered drone to ISIS.

For now, the confirmed development is the discovery and controlled destruction of the device. Its source, intended use and circumstances remain undisclosed.