Clashes between forces affiliated with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and Harki tribesmen in the Khabat district of Erbil Governate ceased overnight, although tensions remain high. The KDP is demanding the surrender of Khurshid Harki, a key leader of the Harki tribe, whose home is being defended by hundreds of armed tribesmen. The altercation began on the afternoon of July 8, when KDP security forces attempted to arrest Khurshid Harki, approximately 600 meters from his reported location. Harki tribesmen intercepted the security forces, leading to confrontations. These clashes resulted in the deaths of Falah Hassan, a member of the Erbil-based Zeravani forces affiliated with the KDP, and a Harki tribesman, according to Zoom News. NRT also reported one Peshmerga and one Harki fighter killed. The dispute stems from a land claim between the Harki and Gorran tribes, with the contested land earmarked for a new oil pipeline. Both tribes have previously de-escalated similar land disputes. The Harki tribe interpreted the KDP's attempt to arrest their leader as an attack on their entire tribe, escalating the conflict. Video footage indicates fighting occurred around the Khabat Power Plant. Reinforcements from the Harki tribe have joined the front lines. Separately, an NRT correspondent and photographer were reportedly taken by KDP forces on the night of July 8 and transported to an unknown destination.
