Exploring the Hidden Realities of Life in Iraq’s ‘Forbidden Zone’

Nestled in the mountains of Iraqi Kurdistan, the village of Sergele faces an uncertain future as Turkish military bases encroach upon its lands. For generations, the villagers have thrived on agriculture, cultivating pomegranates, almonds, and peaches. However, the establishment of military installations nearby has severely restricted their access to vital resources, threatening their way of life. As tensions rise between Turkey and the Kurdish militant group PKK, the local community grapples with the implications of being caught in the crossfire.

Military Expansion and Its Impact

Sergele, located just 16 kilometers from the Turkish border, has seen a significant increase in Turkish military presence over the past two years. At least seven military bases have been constructed in the vicinity, including one near a dam that regulates the village’s water supply. This expansion has rendered parts of the villagers’ land off-limits, leading to claims of occupation from local farmers like Sherwan Sergeli, who has lost access to his agricultural land. The situation has escalated to the point where Sergele is now considered part of the “Forbidden Zone,” a region heavily affected by Turkey’s ongoing conflict with the PKK, which has been active since 1984.

Human rights organizations, such as Community Peacemaker Teams, report that the conflict has resulted in numerous civilian casualties due to drone and air strikes. A 2020 report from the Kurdistan parliament indicated that thousands have been displaced, and entire villages have been abandoned as a result of the violence. The BBC’s investigation revealed that Turkish aircraft have been actively targeting areas around Sergele, exacerbating the destruction of local farmland and threatening the livelihoods of its residents.

The Broader Context of Conflict

The conflict in the region is part of a larger struggle involving Turkey’s military operations against the PKK, which it designates as a terrorist organization. Turkey’s military presence in northern Iraq has expanded significantly, with satellite imagery showing at least 136 fixed military installations established since 2018. This expansion has allowed Turkey to exert control over more than 2,000 square kilometers of Iraqi territory, with extensive road networks facilitating military logistics and contributing to environmental degradation.

Despite public condemnation from the Iraqi government regarding Turkey’s military actions, the reality on the ground suggests a complex relationship. Iraq relies on Turkey for trade, investment, and water security, which complicates its ability to confront Ankara’s military presence. In 2024, Iraq and Turkey signed a memorandum of understanding to combat the PKK, but this agreement did not impose any restrictions on Turkish troop movements within Iraq.

Local Perspectives and Humanitarian Concerns

The situation in Sergele reflects a broader trend of displacement and fear among local populations. In nearby Kani Masi, once known for its apple orchards, few residents remain due to the threat posed by Turkish military operations. Farmers like Salam Saeed have been unable to cultivate their land for years, living under the constant surveillance of drones. The presence of Turkish forces has effectively pushed back Iraqi border guards, limiting their ability to protect local communities from incursions.

Residents express concerns that Turkey’s ultimate goal is to claim the territory as its own. The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), which governs the semi-autonomous region, has maintained a close relationship with Turkey, often downplaying the impact of military actions on civilians. While KDP officials assert that Turkish forces do not harm local populations, many residents feel increasingly vulnerable and marginalized.

Seeking Justice and Accountability

The ongoing conflict has led to tragic incidents, including the death of civilians caught in air strikes. Families affected by such violence often struggle to seek justice or compensation due to bureaucratic obstacles. In one case, a young cancer patient named Alan Ismail was killed during an air strike, prompting his family to seek accountability from both Turkish and Kurdish authorities. However, investigations into civilian casualties have been closed without resolution, leaving families in anguish and uncertainty.

The Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) has acknowledged the civilian toll of the conflict but has faced criticism for its handling of such incidents. Many families, like that of Alan Ismail, continue to wait for recognition and support from the KRG, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in a region marked by violence and instability. As the conflict persists, the plight of communities like Sergele remains a poignant reminder of the human cost of geopolitical struggles.

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