Shafaq News – Diyala (Updated at 20:39)

On Tuesday, the Iraqi Army and the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) launched a joint operation targeting ISIS remnants in the Hamrin mountain range,a rugged range spanning Diyala, Saladin, and Kirkuk provinces in northeastern Iraq.

In a statement, the PMF said the offensive was carried out from three directions based on "precise intelligence information" to eliminate remaining ISIS cells in the area.

The statement added that the operation began with heavy preparatory artillery and mortar fire on designated targets and was still ongoing at the time of reporting.

Known for its complex terrain of caves and tunnel networks, the area has long served as a strategic sanctuary, logistical hub, and training ground for insurgent groups, particularly ISIS. Although the group was territorially defeated, its sleeper cells continue to exploit these ungoverned spaces to regroup and carry out hit-and-run attacks against security forces and critical infrastructure.