Methane Gas Poisoning in Northern Iraq: 8 Turkish Soldiers Martyred
Eight Turkish soldiers were martyred due to methane gas poisoning during a search operation in a cave in northern Iraq, with 19 soldiers initially exposed to the toxic gas.
In a tragic incident during a search operation in northern Iraq, eight Turkish soldiers were martyred after being exposed to methane gas in a cave. The Turkish Ministry of National Defense confirmed that 19 soldiers were initially affected by the gas, with eight succumbing to the poisoning despite immediate medical intervention.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred on July 6, 2025, during a search and clearance operation in a cave on Hill 852, which had previously been used as a hospital by terrorists. The cave had been cleared of terrorists, but during the operation, 19 soldiers were exposed to methane gas. All affected soldiers were promptly evacuated to the hospital, but eight could not be saved.
The Ministry of National Defense stated, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident. We extend our condolences to the families of our martyrs, the Turkish Armed Forces, and our noble nation. We pray for the swift recovery of the affected soldiers.”
Names of the Martyrs
The Ministry also released the names of the martyrs:
- Lieutenant Ege Akar
- Senior Sergeant Abdurrahman Akdoğan
- Contracted Infantry Private Özkan Özkanlı
- Contracted Infantry Private Mahsun Yeşildemir
- Contracted Infantry Private Ahmet Kuşak
President Erdoğan’s Condolences
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan expressed his condolences in a social media statement, saying, “I received the news of the martyrdom of our heroic soldiers with great sorrow. I pray for Allah’s mercy on our brave Mehmetçiks who sacrificed their lives for the security of Turkey and the peace of our nation. I extend my condolences to their families and the Turkish Armed Forces. I wish a speedy recovery to the soldiers still undergoing treatment. May their souls rest in peace, and may our noble nation remain strong.”
Call for Caution Against Misinformation
Fahrettin Altun, Turkey’s Communications Director, urged citizens to rely only on official statements and avoid misinformation. He stated, “This tragic incident has deeply saddened our nation. We kindly request our citizens to be cautious against disinformation and to trust only the official statements from authorized sources.”
Ongoing Rescue Operations
Search and rescue operations in the area continue, with teams from the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) and the Disaster and Emergency Management Authority (AFAD) working in coordination. The region remains under control, and all necessary measures are being taken to prevent further incidents.
