Turkish military bases escalate conflict in Iraq's forbidden zone
- Turkey has expanded its military presence in Iraqi Kurdistan by building military bases in the region since 2021.
- The Forbidden Zone, created by military conflict with PKK, has forced thousands of civilians to flee their homes.
- The ongoing conflict raises concerns about the safety and stability of local communities.
Iraq has seen significant military activity along its northern border with Turkey, as Turkey has constructed at least seven military bases within Iraqi territory over the past two years. These bases are part of Turkey's ongoing efforts to combat the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has been classified as a terrorist organization by Ankara and several Western governments. The PKK has been engaged in an insurgency since 1984, causing the establishment of what is locally referred to as the 'Forbidden Zone,' an area that stretches nearly the entire length of the Iraqi-Turkish border and extends up to 40 kilometers into Iraq. The establishment of these military installations has resulted in grave consequences for local communities. Reports from Community Peacemaker Teams indicate that hundreds of civilians have died from drone and air strikes in this region. A 2020 report from the Kurdistan parliament noted that these hostilities have forced thousands off their land and led to the abandonment of entire villages. Residents have expressed concern that as Turkey increases its military presence, their safety and livelihood are further jeopardized. The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), which has governed the semi-autonomous region since 2005, maintains a complex relationship with Turkey. Although significant military engagement has occurred, KDP officials claim that the Turkish forces do not harm Kurds. However, the rise in violence, particularly affecting civilians in border areas, contradicts these claims and reflects the dire circumstances of local inhabitants. Yerzan, a local man, poignantly remarked that the Turkish military's actions are an unacceptable violation of their rights. As armed conflicts persist, civilians such as Alan, a resident killed by explosive fragments during military actions, are caught in the crossfire. His family is still awaiting acknowledgment and compensation from the Kurdistan Regional Government for his death, underscoring the personal toll of this ongoing conflict. In light of these developments, the humanitarian implications of Turkey's military activities in Iraq remain severe, as local populations face increasing risks of death and displacement amid the broader geopolitical struggle in the region.