The Evolution of the Peshmerga vs. the Case of Islamic State in Iraq
... therefore proved to be essential elements for the effectiveness of the Kurdish campaign. As the peshmerga transitioned successfully from defensive to offensive strategies, low morale was quickly overcome, with the tipping point occurring when the peshmerga regained control of Makhmour and the surrounding areas. The Kurds struck an entirely unexpected blow in this case. Since IS was following its own planned advance, the peshmerga attack, which occurred simultaneously from three different directions (front, rear and side) caught it by surprise and both Gwer and ...