Kurdish War: August 9, 2002

Archives

: Jalal Talabani, head of the Iraqi Kurd Patriot Union of Kurdistan (PUK) claimed that the Turkish Army now has control of the airport at Bamerni (northern Iraq, between Zakho and Dohuk). (One news source reported that Talabani told CNN that the Turkish Army has actually controlled the airport since 1996, though no planes are currently operating from the field.) The Turkish military denied Talabani's claim. Here's why the report is interesting: A real "multi-axis attack" on Saddam Hussein's regime would have a northern front. An airbase in northern Iraq would give US helicopters a forward operating position, to lift air assault infantry and special forces to objectives deep inside Iraq.

X

ad

Help Keep StrategyPage Open

First came Facebook, then came Twitter, and finally, AI has arrived. They have all caused a decline in our business, but AI may be the deadliest innovation. We are currently in survival mode. Our writers and staff receive no payment in some months, and even when they do, it is below the minimum wage for their efforts. You can support us with your donations or subscriptions. Please help us keep our doors open.

Make sure you spread the word about us. Two ways to do that are to like us on Facebook and follow us on X.

Subscribe   Donate   Close