At 0530hrs on September 11, Peshmerga forces launched a large-scale offensive in South of Kirkuk to further weaken ISIL's ability to threaten the Kurdistan Region. By 1315hrs, over 150 square kilometres were reclaimed, including the following villages: Albu Mohammed, Albu Yusif, Smud, Dlati Bchuk, Dlati Gowra, Sab'nisan, Tl Raba', Zenqare and Gm Bus.

During the offensive, Peshmerga forces successfully took control of the strategic Dusera Heights, located South of Daquq, and an additional stretch of the Kirkuk-Baghdad Highway, further limiting ISIL's freedom of movements.

International Coalition warplanes targeted dozens of ISIL positions from early hours of the morning and provided close air support to Peshmerga forces. The offensive, which was launched from two fronts South of Daquq, included approximately 1,500 Peshmerga and resulted in killing at least 40 ISIL terrorists.

One VBIED was destroyed by an International Coalition airstrike.

Counter-IED teams are now clearing the heavily-mined area.

In the last six months more than 530 square kilometres South of Kirkuk have been cleared as a result of four large-scale offensives.

Office of The Chancellor
Kurdistan Region Security Council (KRSC)