In a large-scale joint search operation, Kurdistan region security special operations forces, General Directorate of Counter-Terrorism (CTG) forces, the Kurdistan Commando Forces, the 711th Brigade of the 70th Peshmerga Corps and the forces of the International Coalition against ISIS, today conducted an extensive air and ground operation in Ashdakh Mountain and Sangaw area of the Kurdistan region.

“The joint operation was launched at 5 am on Monday, January 2, 2023 and lasted until 2 pm on the same day,” a statement from the security forces said. The joint operation searched the areas where ISIS sleeper cells' presence is suspected.

According to the Kurdistan region security forces the operation was "only" to monitor the security situation in the area. The forces said that their extensive search has ensured the people of the region that they are safe from any threats.

The large-scale operation is the most extensive military operation to date in the region, as it involved all armed forces.

Kurdistan region armed forces during the search operation in Sulaimani's Sangaw region