Fighting erupted in Sulaimaniyah, Iraq, on August 22nd, with reports of at least two drone strikes targeting Bafel Talabaniās residential compound north of the city, followed by gunfire. The Lalazar Hotel area, reportedly taken by Lahur Jangiās men, is currently under intense attack from multiple directions, according to multiple sources. Rudaw footage shows smoke rising over the Lalazar area as clashes continue between security forces and Lahur Jangiās armed supporters. The situation has raised concerns that if the fighting spreads throughout Sulaimaniyah, the consequences for the city and its residents could be catastrophic. Details regarding the specific timing of the drone strikes and the number of casualties, if any, have not yet been officially confirmed. The identities of the perpetrators of the drone strikes and the exact nature of the conflict remain unclear. The events follow tensions within the region, though specific causal links to the current violence are not yet established by official statements.
