Kurdistan’s Duhok region has completed significant minefield clearance, removing nearly 400,000 square meters of land from explosives in 2025. The operation strengthens safety for local communities and reflects the region’s commitment to addressing remnants of past conflicts.
To begin with, Reger Besfki, spokesperson for the Duhok Mine Affairs Directorate, said teams fully demined seven minefields. They removed over 1,700 explosive items, including mortar shells, rockets, anti-personnel and anti-tank mines, and improvised explosive devices.
In addition, the directorate responded to 56 public reports of suspicious objects received through its hotline. They also engaged 30 volunteers to raise awareness about mine risks in local communities.
The minefield clearance efforts also included verifying safety in cleared areas. Teams inspected and tested more than 58,000 square meters, conducted over 240 field visits, added five new sites to the database, and updated 12 existing minefield records.
Kurdistan, like other parts of Iraq, remains heavily affected by landmines and unexploded ordnance from previous conflicts. According to a 2024 report by Humanity and Inclusion, more than 8.5 million Iraqis live in areas contaminated by explosive remnants of war and IEDs.
Since 2003, Iraq has identified more than 6,600 square kilometers contaminated by landmines and explosive remnants. Of this, 4,540 square kilometers have been cleared, while over 2,000 square kilometers still require demining.
Officials emphasized that clearing minefields not only protects lives but also allows communities to safely use farmland, roads, and public spaces. They plan to continue demining and community awareness campaigns throughout 2026.
Experts say that sustained clearance programs are crucial for regional stability and economic recovery, enabling safer movement and reconstruction in post-conflict areas.
The operation in Duhok demonstrates effective coordination between local authorities, international organizations, and volunteers to mitigate explosive hazards. Ongoing efforts aim to gradually eliminate risks across the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
