The United States needs a broader strategy for dealing with the recent developments in Iraq, but in the meantime humanitarian aid can highlight our commitment to the well-being of displaced civilians.
From: MENA Section Chief Hamid Hamid
The United States needs a broader strategy for dealing with the recent developments in Iraq, but in the meantime humanitarian aid can highlight our commitment to the well-being of displaced civilians.
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Unclassified
Foreign Policy Advisor MENA-Feven Enkuselasse
Distribution:
Section Chief MENA Secretary of Defense
Chief of Staff President Martin Widzer
Director of US Aid
Intelligence Bulletin
Kirkuk- 17 October 2017
16:45 EEST
Subject: Iraq seizes Kirkuk from Kurdish Control
Status: Heightened
Event: Iraqi forces have seized oil rich Kirkuk from Kurdish forces, after 3 years of Kurdish control of the region, and have also seized Sinjar, a town on the border of Iraq and Syria, from Kurdish control. The Iraqi operation began Sunday with forces seizing key assets, including the Baba Karkar oil and gas field and the K1 military base. 61,200 people were displaced as a result of violent clashes between Kurdish and Iraqi forces. Violence is predicted to elevate, escalating regional instability as well as humanitarian concerns.
Action: Both the Kurds and Iraq are considered U.S. allies— Iraqi and Kurdish forces are armed and supported by the U.S, therefore it is not of interest to contribute to the efforts of either side of the conflict, but rather to contain the threat of regional instability and attain peace. This may be done by first containing humanitarian concerns and sending aid to displaced persons, which may include food, water, and clothing. Secondly, we must refocus Iraqi leaders in pursuing counter-terrorist efforts against ISIS, rather than wasting military resources against Kurdish forces, as ISIS remains a significant threat in the region. Deploying U.S. military advisors may assist in doing so. Diplomatic negotiations with Kurdish forces must be initiated in order to prevent retaliation against Iraq.
Est Cost:
Humanitarian Aid: $100,000.00
Military Assistance: $1 Million
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