Kirkuk witnessed deadly PMF strikes early Tuesday morning, targeting positions of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces. The attacks occurred in the northwestern Dibis district, leaving six people dead and nearly twenty others injured. Officials report that several of the wounded civilians are in critical condition following the strikes. PMF strikes appear part of an escalating cycle of attacks across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
The first strike targeted the 40th Brigade headquarters, prompting local residents and ambulances to rush to the scene immediately. Tragically, a second strike hit the same area, harming many of those who responded to the initial attack. Officials emphasized that the repeated bombing increased civilian casualties and disrupted emergency response efforts significantly. PMF strikes have raised fresh concerns about civilian safety in contested areas of Kirkuk province.
The timing of the attacks followed a call between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani. During the conversation, Rubio emphasized that Iraq must take all necessary measures to safeguard American personnel and diplomatic facilities nationwide. Rubio also condemned what he described as “terrorist attacks” by Iran and Iran-aligned groups operating inside Iraq. PMF strikes further complicate Iraq’s security environment amid heightened regional tensions.
These attacks are not isolated incidents; similar bombardments have struck pro-Iran armed groups across Iraq recently. On Sunday, four PMF fighters were killed and eight others wounded in Diyala province in an airstrike targeting the 41st Brigade of Asaib Ahl al-Haq. The group accused the United States and Israel of carrying out the strike, though neither has issued official confirmation. PMF strikes in multiple provinces reflect the growing volatility in Iraq and the broader region.
Islamic Resistance factions in Iraq reported responding with more than 200 drone and missile attacks against US bases over the past ten days. Analysts suggest that these escalations highlight a complex, multi-sided conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel. PMF strikes continue to exacerbate insecurity, heightening fears of further civilian casualties and retaliatory actions.
In conclusion, PMF strikes in Kirkuk’s Dibis district underline the fragile security situation in Iraq. Local civilians, regional actors, and international observers remain on high alert amid ongoing military and political tensions.
