The Iraqi army and Hashd al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilization Units, PMU) forces have taken control over the whole of Kirkuk in the wake of an onslaught they launched early Monday morning. PMU flags have been hanged on the official buildings across the city.

Majority of the residents started to flee the Kirkuk to Hewler and Sulaymaniyah after PMU and Iraqi military forces entering the city. Most of the fleeing civilians are still on the road in an effort to reach safe areas.

According to reports coming through, some groups trying to resist Hashd al-Shaabi invasion have gotten stuck in some areas and are trying to get out of the city.