Iraqi F-16s destroy ISIS tunnel, kill three militants in Kirkuk

The Iraqi Security Media Cell stated on Monday that fighter jets from the country’s air force conducted precision strikes against Islamic State (ISIS) elements and a subterranean hideout located in the Zaghitoun Valley within Kirkuk province. The operation, carried out using F-16 aircraft, was based on intelligence regarding militant movements in northern Iraq.

Intelligence-led military operations

According to a statement released by the cell, which operates under the Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the action followed specific data provided by the Military Intelligence Directorate. This information was coordinated with the Aerial Reconnaissance and Surveillance Center at the Commander-in-Chief’s office.

The security forces detected the movement of three terrorist operatives within the Kirkuk Operations Command sector, specifically identifying their location in the Zaghitoun area. The statement emphasized that these findings triggered the subsequent aerial response.

Airstrike timeline and destruction

At 12:21, the "Hawks" executed a direct and precise airstrike targeting the identified individuals. The media cell described the hit as painful and effective against the observed targets.

Following the initial engagement, authorities confirmed the presence of a tunnel used by terrorists in the same vicinity. At 13:30, this structure was targeted and completely demolished by the air force units.