Iraq's CTS Mourns Three Soldiers Killed in Bomb Blast

CTS's Media Office

CTS soldier during an operation.

Three soldiers from Iraq’s Counter-Terrorism Service were killed and four others wounded when a bomb exploded in the country’s north, the CTS announced in a statement on Sunday.

The explosion occurred during a routine sweep as CTS units carried out field inspections in Al Hadar Desert, south-west of the northern city of Mosul, the statement read.

The CTS ruled out an ambush, saying the explosive device was “from the remnants of ISIS terrorist gangs”.

The statement added: “We affirm with unwavering resolve our continuation in performing our national duties with all courage and determination. We stress that the pure blood of the martyrs will remain an incentive for us to continue pursuing the remnants of terrorism and protecting the security and stability of Iraq.”

ISIS captured large parts of Iraq in 2014 and declared a self-styled “caliphate,” leading to widespread violence and mass displacement. Although Iraq declared victory over the group in 2017, ISIS remnants remain active, particularly in disputed territories between the federal government in Baghdad and the Kurdistan Regional Government.

Despite Iraq’s declaration of military victory over ISIS in December 2017, remnants of the group have persisted in operating in desert hideouts across western and northern Iraq. These cells rely on hit-and-run attacks, roadside bombs, and ambushes of security forces and civilians.

Iraqi and Kurdish security forces regularly carry out joint operations aimed at eradicating these remaining terrorist networks.

The latest incident highlights the persistent danger posed by explosive devices left by ISIS, even years after the group lost its territorial foothold. Iraqi security forces continue to conduct clearance and intelligence-led operations to locate weapons caches and disrupt sleeper cells, particularly in Nineveh, Anbar and Saladin provinces.



PUKMEDIA