Repeated Turkish bombardments of villages in Iraqi Kurdistan’s Amedi (Amêdiyê) district have caused prolonged fires devastating the local environment and agricultural livelihoods. The most recent fires, which sparked from Monday’s bombing of Deresh (Dereşê) and Rızık (Rêzikê) villages on the slopes of Gare (Garê) Mountain, show no signs of abating with no reports of a successful extinguish attempt by Wednesday.
Additionally, a separate blaze in Amedi, a result of a Turkish bombardment, has intensified near the village of Guherze (Guherzê).
Further complicating the situation, RojNews recently revealed that the Turkish military is using heavy machinery to cut down trees in Duhok province and transport the wood into Turkey. Reports indicate systemic deforestation causing irreparable damage to the forest ecosystems and negatively impacting local livelihoods.
This activity is part of broader Turkish military operations in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) which have led to significant deforestation, worsening environmental damage and raised concerns over a potentially permanent Turkish presence in the area.
Since June, Turkish forces have conducted both aerial and artillery bombardments, in a ramped up cross-border incursion, causing extensive damage to civilian areas and vital infrastructure. These actions have forced the displacement of local populations, adding to the growing instability in the region.
As part of its latest cross-border incursion, Turkey has established checkpoints and is conducting ID checks. Critics argue that these measures are attempts to consolidate and perpetuate its military presence in Iraqi Kurdistan. The Kurdistan Regional Government’s ruling party, the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), is reportedly facilitating these efforts, while Baghdad is accused of turning a blind eye.
The ongoing bombardments and the resulting destruction of infrastructure and livelihoods have forced many locals to evacuate. Additionally, there are reports of abuse from Turkish soldiers at checkpoints, further heightening tensions. The local population fears that these actions are paving the way for a permanent Turkish occupation of the region.
