Iraqi Forces Capture Airbase and Industrial Areas from Kurdish Control near Kirkuk

On Monday, October 16, Iraqi forces seized several positions controlled by Kurdish Peshmerga in southern Kirkuk. According to a statement from the Iraqi army reported by Reuters, the areas captured by the Iraqi army and the Shiite militia Hashd al-Shaabi include a key airbase known as 'K-1', buildings of the North Oil Company, a power plant, and industrial complexes. The statement adds that the Iraqi army 'continues its advances'. Kurdish television 'Rudaw' reports that Peshmerga forces have retreated from several positions in southern Kirkuk. Kirkuk is currently under Kurdish control, but the advance of Iraqi forces towards the industrial area has allowed them access to the southern part of the city. The Iraqi Ministry of Interior stated that federal forces have taken control of a power plant, a police station, and industrial areas around Kirkuk. No further details regarding casualties and clashes have been provided in this statement. Kurdish forces described the Iraqi operations as 'extensive' and stated that their assault has resulted in 'significant casualties'. According to the Associated Press, General Behzad Ahmad, a spokesperson for the Kurdish forces, stated that federal forces have captured an oil and gas company and other industrial areas in southern Kirkuk, inflicting 'heavy casualties'. He added that Iraqi forces have 'burned many houses' in Tuz Khurmatu and Duhok in southern Kirkuk and 'killed many'. No independent sources have confirmed his claims. Meanwhile, Ayoub Youssef, a commander of the Kurdish Peshmerga, told the Associated Press that they will resist any attempt by the central Iraqi government to seize Kirkuk airport. He stated, 'We are not going to leave here; we are reinforcing our positions at the airport and intend to fight.' Reports indicate that hundreds of Peshmerga forces are also positioned in various parts of Kirkuk city, preparing for a potential attack by Iraqi forces. Tensions between the central Iraqi government and the Kurdistan Region have escalated since October 25, when a referendum for independence was held in Kurdish areas, with over 92% voting for independence from Iraq. The Iraqi army, along with Shiite militias, has advanced towards Kirkuk to reclaim disputed areas with the Kurdistan Region, but they are currently stationed in surrounding areas. Some Peshmerga commanders have stated that the IRGC forces are also present alongside Iraqi forces around Kirkuk. Reports indicate that both sides exchanged artillery fire last night.