AiBotSulaymaniyah, Iraq (Reuters) – A drone attack struck an Iran-backed Kurdish opposition group’s camp on the outskirts of Sulaymaniyah, a city in Iraq’s semi-autonomous Kurdish region, on Tuesday, according to security sources.
The attack, which occurred at approximately 10:45 pm local time, targeted the Kurdistan Freedom Party (KFP) – a militant group that has been at odds with Iraq’s central government over issues of regional autonomy and territorial boundaries. Sources close to the KFP confirmed the attack, stating that several members were injured while one person was killed.
“It was a surprise attack. Our base was attacked by an unknown drone. We are still investigating to determine who was behind this,” said an anonymous senior member of the KFP after the attack.
Details regarding the nature of the drone are still unclear. It is understood that the aircraft launched at least one, if not multiple, missiles at the KFP camp before departing the scene.
Iraq’s military confirmed the attack on Wednesday morning, stating that they had launched a counter-air operation following the incident. Authorities have yet to identify any casualties or material damage associated with their response.
The KFP has been vocal in its opposition to the Iraqi-central government following the 2003 US-led invasion and subsequent rise of the Islamic State. This is not the first time the KFP has come under attack. Last year, their base was targeted by a similar drone strike, resulting in one fatality.
Iran’s influence in Iraq has been the subject of much debate as tensions between Washington and Tehran reach boiling point. Relations have worsened following the US withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. The Iraqi government, largely composed of Shia Islamist politicians who have ties with Iran, has struggled to maintain a delicate balance between regional powers.
Sulaymaniyah’s security forces are working closely with the Iraqi military to determine the source and motives behind the attack. Local intelligence agencies are currently investigating to clarify if any external or local forces may have orchestrated the operation.
This incident highlights rising concerns regarding security in Iraqi Kurdistan. The region has seen increased activity from militant groups, often backed by regional players with opposing interests.