In Kirkuk, Iraq, a decision to transfer control of the Joint Operations Command headquarters to the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) sparked protests by Turkmens and Arabs, leading to road closures and ongoing tension in the city. Security measures were heightened, with police preparing for an unauthorized demonstration against the Iraqi army and Hashd al-Shaabi. Although the decision was temporarily postponed, unrest persisted, resulting in occasional clashes between security forces and citizens. The situation led to road closures, congestion, and the eventual cancellation of the planned demonstration. Local authorities emphasized the need for security and discouraged foreign interference, reassuring residents to remain calm amidst attempts to destabilize Kirkuk.