Iraq Regains Full Control of Houran Valley After 22 Years

INA

Major General Tahseen al-Khafaji, Director of the Media & Moral Guidance Directorate at the Defence

For the first time in 22 years, Iraq has taken full control of the Houran Valley in Anbar province, near the Iraq–Saudi border, long regarded as one of the country’s most dangerous security flashpoints.

The Ministry of Defence announced on Thursday that the security situation in the valley is now stable and free of terrorism, with fortified defence lines established to prevent future infiltration.

Major General Tahseen al-Khafaji, Director of the Media and Moral Guidance Directorate at the Ministry of Defence, told the Iraq's state media (INA): “Houran Valley enjoys stability and security. Security forces are holding the defence lines established in the area to prevent any terrorist infiltration attempts.”

He explained that the valley stretches 370 kilometres, from north of Tharthar to the Iraqi–Saudi border. The Iraqi army has constructed fortified positions known as the Houran Dam Lines, now under the responsibility of the Fifth Division, Jazeera Operations Command, and Anbar Operations Command.

“These lines play a fundamental role in preventing any terrorist infiltration or penetration attempts toward cities,” Khafaji added, stressing that “the situation in Houran Valley is completely stable and secure, with no terrorist gangs present.”

The valley has for decades served as a stronghold for armed groups. Iraqi forces repeatedly clashed with militants in the area, suffering heavy casualties. 



PUKMEDIA