International Coalition Force deployed in Kirkuk's K-1 military base

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – An armed force from the international coalition against ISIS has been deployed at the K-1 military base in Kirkuk. A senior security source disclosed the purpose of this deployment to Kurdistan 24.

Speaking to Kurdistan 24 reporter Hemn Dalo, a senior military source in Kirkuk, who wished to remain unnamed, revealed, "Last night, August 3, an international coalition force against ISIS was deployed at the K-1 military base in Kirkuk."

The source detailed that the coalition force comprises 60 officers, soldiers, and military advisors, equipped with advanced military gear and supported by three vehicles. They were also accompanied by an Iraqi counter-terrorism force.

Explaining the rationale behind the deployment, the source stated, "The tensions in the region are one of the reasons why the force came to K-1. Additionally, they will participate and consult with coalition commanders and soldiers in operations against ISIS fighters in that area."

The source further added, "The force will also participate in the operations room that will be established between the forces of the Iraqi government and the Kurdistan Region."

Additionally, the source disclosed another crucial task for the coalition forces: "Another task of the force is to protect the British oil giant British Petroleum (BP), which recently signed an agreement with the Iraqi government to expand the oil fields Havana, Bai Hassan, Baba Gurgur, and Jambor."

The K-1 military base, located 16 kilometers from the center of Kirkuk, is witnessing the deployment of an international coalition force for the first time since the events of October 16, 2017.