Coalition forces are supporting a Peshmerga offensive operation against Daesh terrorists west of Kirkuk, Iraq that began Sept. 30, 2015. Peshmerga fighters successfully penetrated Daesh defensive positions, cleared fighters, liberated eight villages, and re-established government control over approximately 140 square kilometers between Huwayjah and Kirkuk.

Coalition aircraft conducted more than 50 airstrikes in support of this operation. Airstrikes against Daesh positions began several days before the ground operation in order to set favorable conditions for the Peshmerga by degrading Daesh’s ability to fight.

“The Peshmerga fighters continue to reduce Daesh’s initial gains in northern Iraq,” said Col. Christopher Garver, Public Affairs Officer for CJTF-OIR. “This was another important fight in the overall effort to degrade and ultimately defeat Daesh”.

In the last four weeks, the Peshmerga have conducted three successful offensive operations against Daesh terrorists, returning more than 400 square kilometers of territory to government control, liberating 23 villages in the process, and helping to set the conditions for local citizens to return to their homes.