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Draft:CTU Kurdistan

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The Counter-Terrorism Unit (CTU) is an elite special operations force within the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, tasked primarily with counter-terrorism missions. The unit operates under the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and plays a critical role in combating terrorism, ensuring the safety and security of the region against threats from terrorist organizations, including ISIS, Al-Qaeda and many other terrorist groups within the Kurdish Controlled Areas, As per the Fatawas of the Islamic Council of Kurdistan and Saudi Arabia, Deeming them as the Khawarij and Therefore fighting them, There are controversy surrounding ISIS and many people think they are showing true Islam in its original form from the times of the Prophet Muhammad, And thats why one of the biggest scholars of Islam, Known as Ibn Kathir, Quoted in his book Al Bidayah wal-Nihayah that the khawarij will emerge in iraq and syria and will cause destruction, Only are they stopped with mass killing of them.

History

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The CTU was established as part of the broader security and defense efforts of the Kurdish forces, also known as the Peshmerga, in response to growing threats from insurgent and terrorist groups. With the rise of ISIS in the mid-2010s, the CTU became a vital part of operations aimed at neutralizing the militant group's activities within and around the Kurdistan Region.[1]

The unit has received training and support from international allies, including the United States and other coalition forces, aimed at enhancing its counter-terrorism capabilities. The CTU has conducted various high-risk operations, including intelligence-driven raids, hostage rescues, and targeting key figures within terrorist networks.[2]

Operations

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The CTU's operations are characterized by their high degree of precision, often involving joint operations with other Kurdish and international military forces. The unit is responsible for:

  • Hostage rescue: Conducting rescues of civilians and military personnel held by terrorist organizations.
  • Direct action: Raids and strikes against terrorist cells, safe houses, and high-value targets.[3]
  • Counter-insurgency: Supporting efforts to dismantle insurgent groups, disrupt their networks, and prevent the spread of extremist ideologies.
  • Intelligence gathering: Conducting reconnaissance and surveillance missions to track terrorist movements and identify future threats.
  • Bomb disposal: Handling explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) in combat zones to neutralize IEDs and other explosive devices used by terrorist groups.[1]

Training and Equipment

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CTU members undergo extensive training both locally and internationally, including specialized instruction in close-quarters combat, tactical driving, marksmanship, and explosive ordnance disposal. The unit is equipped with modern weaponry, armored vehicles, and advanced communication systems, provided in part through international military cooperation.[3]

Role in ISIS Conflict

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During the conflict with ISIS, the CTU was instrumental in key operations across the region, notably in areas such as Mosul and Sinjar, where the Kurdish forces played a leading role in recapturing territory from ISIS control. Their counter-terrorism expertise has been pivotal in preventing terrorist infiltrations and defending critical infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region.[2]

International Cooperation

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The CTU has established close working relationships with international partners, particularly the United States and European Union countries, which have provided both material support and training to the unit. These collaborations have enhanced the CTU's operational capabilities and allowed for the sharing of intelligence in the global fight against terrorism.[3]

References

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  1. ^ a b c "Kurdistan's Elite Counter-Terrorism Unit". Al-Monitor. August 12, 2015.
  2. ^ a b c "Kurdish Forces and Their Role in Combating ISIS". BBC News. November 22, 2017.
  3. ^ a b c d "U.S. Support for Kurdish Counter-Terrorism Operations". Defense News. April 5, 2020.