Iraqi officials reported on Saturday, March 13, that a chemical attack by the Islamic State group near Kirkuk resulted in the death of a three-year-old child, approximately 600 others injured, and hundreds displaced. The Associated Press, citing Iraqi medical and security officials, reported that the small town of Tuz Khurmatu, which had also been targeted by chemical attacks three days prior, was again attacked on the morning of March 13. Iraqi officials stated that German and American medical teams were present at the site. The Iranian Ministry of Health's news website also reported that a medical team from Iran had been dispatched to Kirkuk. Hospital officials indicated that the injured were suffering from infectious burns, dehydration, and feelings of suffocation. The chemical attacks by the Islamic State (ISIS) coincide with the news of the arrest of Suleiman Dawood al-Bakar, a chemical weapons expert for the group. The U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) announced on Thursday, March 11, that U.S. special forces had captured Mr. al-Bakar last month (February) in Iraq. According to the Pentagon, Suleiman Dawood al-Bakar revealed important information about the locations for the production and storage of chemical weapons by the Islamic State. The U.S. and Iraq hope to use this information to dismantle ISIS's capability to produce chemical weapons. The United States stated that Suleiman Dawood al-Bakar has been handed over to Iraqi authorities. According to American officials, the Islamic State has previously used mustard and chlorine gases in the battlefield. The group still maintains control over Mosul, the second-largest city in Iraq.
Chemical Attack by Islamic State Group Near Kirkuk
A chemical attack by the Islamic State near Kirkuk killed a child and injured hundreds. This incident follows the arrest of a key ISIS chemical weapons expert, raising concerns about the group's ongoing capabilities. The situation highlights the persistent threat of ISIS in Iraq.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
A chemical attack by the Islamic State near Kirkuk resulted in the death of a child and injuries to hundreds. This attack follows the arrest of an ISIS chemical weapons expert, raising concerns about the group's ongoing capabilities.
- The attack injured approximately 600 people and displaced many others.
- The U.S. captured a key ISIS figure who provided information on the group's chemical weapons.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
ISIS has been known to use chemical weapons in the past, and its continued activity poses a significant challenge to Iraqi and international security efforts.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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