International investigation requested as Tehran continues cross-border attacks, according to reports
ERBIL: The Kurdistan Freedom Party (PAK), an Iranian Kurdish opposition group based in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region, has accused Iran of using white phosphorus munitions during a drone strike on one of its military bases, calling for an independent international investigation into the incident.
According to a statement issued by PAK President Hussein Yazdanpanah, the attack took place on July 19 and targeted a base of the group’s Kurdistan National Army (SMK). The organisation claimed eyewitness accounts, medical examinations of nine injured fighters and fires at the site indicated that the strike involved white phosphorus-containing munitions.
However, the allegation has not been independently verified, and Iranian authorities had not publicly responded to the claim at the time of reporting.
Group seeks international response
PAK described the alleged use of white phosphorus as a serious violation of international humanitarian law and urged the United Nations, the UN Security Council, the UN Human Rights Council and the International Committee of the Red Cross to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable if the claims are substantiated.
The group also appealed to the Kurdistan Regional Government to strengthen protection for civilians and address continued cross-border attacks.
The World Health Organization states that white phosphorus is commonly used by militaries for illumination, smoke screens and incendiary purposes. It also notes that determining whether its use violates international law depends on the circumstances and intended purpose.
Fresh strikes reported
Meanwhile, Kurdish media outlet Rudaw reported that Iran launched additional missile and drone strikes on positions belonging to the Komala opposition group early Monday in Iraq’s Kurdistan Region.
Separately, the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights expressed concern over the allegations and called for an independent international fact-finding mission to examine the attack site, assess the injured and determine whether prohibited weapons were used.
Iran has previously conducted military operations against Iranian Kurdish opposition groups based in northern Iraq, arguing that the groups pose security threats. Tehran has not commented publicly on the latest allegations.
