A cave search operation in Iraq turns fatal for Turkish soldiers as methane gas exposure leads to twelve deaths, underscoring the dangers faced by military personnel in hazardous environments.
Turkish Soldiers Die from Methane Gas Exposure During Iraq Operation

Turkish Soldiers Die from Methane Gas Exposure During Iraq Operation
Tragic incident claims lives of twelve soldiers searching for a fallen comrade.
Twelve Turkish soldiers have tragically lost their lives due to exposure to methane gas during a search operation in a remote cave in Iraq, as reported by the Turkish Ministry of National Defence. The incident occurred during an operation intended to locate the body of a soldier who had been killed in combat gunfire back in May 2022.
On Sunday, as troops conducted their search and clearing operations, at least 19 personnel came into contact with the toxic gas and were swiftly evacuated to local hospitals for treatment. Unfortunately, by Monday, the ministry confirmed that 12 of the exposed soldiers had succumbed to their injuries.
This tragic event highlights the inherent risks that military forces face in various operational settings, especially in environments where exposure to hazardous substances is possible. As the search for the soldier's remains continues, the Turkish military is faced with both mourning the loss of their comrades and addressing the safety measures necessary to protect personnel in future operations.