The War in Iraq Against ISIS (2016–2017)

Between 2016 and 2017, Iraq faced one of the most intense phases of its war against the Islamic State (ISIS), a militant group that had seized large parts of the country since 2014. Iraqi forces, supported by an international coalition led by the United States, launched major offensives to retake key territories—culminating in the brutal and protracted Battle of Mosul.

The Kurds played a crucial role in this conflict. The Peshmerga, Kurdish military forces, were on the front lines of the fight against ISIS, particularly in northern Iraq. Their resistance was instrumental in halting the group's advance and liberating several occupied areas.

The war resulted in thousands of deaths, mass displacement, and widespread destruction. In December 2017, the Iraqi government declared military victory over ISIS. However, the consequences of the conflict—including psychological trauma, ethnic tensions, and ongoing humanitarian crises—continue to shape the region.