Iraqi counter-terrorism forces kill seven ISIS militants and conduct wide-scale search operation

KIRKUK — The Iraqi Counter-Terrorism Service announced on Monday that its forces carried out a large-scale operation in the Hamrin mountain range, Kirkuk, resulting in the killing of seven Islamic State militants and the destruction of over 20 hideouts and tunnels.

In a statement, the service explained that the operation was conducted under the supervision of the head of the Counter-Terrorism Service and with support from intelligence units. The forces carried out inspections across multiple areas, focusing on the Hamrin mountain range.

The operation followed an aerial strike targeting key positions, after which ground forces advanced into the area, killing seven ISIS militants, demolishing 20 shelters, three caves, and five tunnels.

“Operations targeting the remnants of terrorist gangs, along with the clearing and inspection of hideouts and caves, continue to be carried out by the heroes of the Counter-Terrorism,” the statement concluded.

While the Iraqi government annually celebrates victory over ISIS forces, remnants of the group remain active in certain areas.

On Monday, Counter-Terrorism Service also announced the death of one of its members, Hadi Hamid Ne’ma, during clashes with ISIS militants in the Hamrin mountain range.

The Islamic State emerged in 2014, capturing key cities such as Mosul and Tikrit and proclaiming a self-styled “caliphate”. Known for its brutal tactics and persecution of minorities, the group was militarily defeated in Iraq by 2017 through coordinated efforts by Iraqi security forces, Kurdish Peshmerga, and a U.S.-led international coalition. Despite this defeat, ISIS remnants continue to operate as an insurgent force, launching occasional attacks from remote hideouts.