The Iraqi Air Force launched two precise air strikes early Thursday morning targeting ISIS hideouts, tunnels, and caves in the northeastern governorate of Kirkuk, according to a statement from the Iraqi Security Media Cell (ISMC). The strikes, carried out by Iraqi F-16 fighter jets at 6:30 a.m., were based on intelligence provided by the Iraqi Directorate of General Military Intelligence (DGMI), reported the Iraqi News Agency (INA).

This operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat ISIS in Iraq. Last November, the DGMI announced the elimination of several ISIS members and the capture of others in multiple security operations across different governorates. The Iraqi Air Force has previously destroyed ISIS hideouts, including an operation in Salah Al-Din governorate that resulted in the deaths of two terrorists.

Despite Iraq declaring the liberation of all its territories from ISIS in late 2017, remnants of the terrorist group continue to pose a threat. Security forces regularly conduct operations to dismantle these remnants and prevent further attacks.

A report by UN experts last August indicated that ISIS still has between 5,000 and 7,000 members in Syria and Iraq. The report, directed to the UN Security Council, highlighted that while ISIS's activity has decreased due to significant leadership losses, the potential for resurgence remains high, particularly in conflict zones.