Drone attacks target separatist positions in northern Iraq

Local media reported that multiple suicide drones struck bases belonging to separatist groups stationed in Sulaymaniyah province. The explosions were heard across large parts of the province. Simultaneously, reports from Erbil indicated several powerful explosions in areas of the province. Some news outlets said the blasts resulted from targeted drone attacks on shelters and positions of separatist parties and groups on the outskirts of Erbil. Air defence systems were activated and attempted to intercept the incoming fire, according to media reports.

According to Mehr News Agency (MNA), the attacks occurred in the Iraqi Kurdistan region, specifically in Sulaymaniyah and Erbil provinces. The reports did not specify the exact locations or the groups targeted, but they were described as separatist parties and groups. The activation of air defence systems suggests that the attacks were anticipated or that there was an ongoing threat.

The drone strikes are part of a series of similar incidents in the region, where Turkish and Iranian forces have frequently targeted positions of Kurdish separatist groups, such as the PKK and PJAK, in northern Iraq. However, the current report does not attribute the attacks to any specific country or actor.

The explosions were powerful enough to be heard across large parts of the provinces, indicating the intensity of the strikes. The activation of air defence systems in Erbil suggests that the authorities were attempting to counter the drones, but it is unclear if any were successfully intercepted.

No immediate casualties or damage were reported in the initial media accounts. The situation remains fluid, and further details may emerge as investigations continue.

According to Mehr News Agency (MNA), the reports of the drone attacks were based on local media and eyewitness accounts. The agency did not provide additional commentary or analysis, but the incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the Iraqi Kurdistan region.