Iraqi forces clashed with Kurdish fighters Monday after Baghdad launched a push to recapture the oil-rich northern city of Kirkuk—an offensive that threatens outright war between the two US-backed factions.Iraqi Prime Minister Haidar al-Abadi ordered the assault late Sunday, calling for Iraqi soldiers to "impose security" on the Kurdish-controlled city to preserve national unity. Regional tensions have escalated in recent weeks after Kurds voted for independence from Iraq in a September referendum.Iraqi state television said Monday that "vast areas" of territory surrounding Kirkuk had been seized, including oilfields and the city's airport. Kurdish officials disputed this claim. Inside Kirkuk, hundreds of armed residents have taken up positions to defend themselves, with fighting reaching the edge of the city.
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