Deadly Clashes Erupt in Diyala: 4 Officers Killed Amid Rising Tensions

Four police officers and three others were injured in violent clashes with Islamic State militants in Diyala province, Iraq. The incident occurred during a search for militants in farmland areas. Despite recent stability, the presence of the U.S.-led coalition remains pivotal in Iraq's security landscape.

Four police officers were killed and at least three injured in clashes between Iraqi government forces and Islamic State militants in Diyala province in eastern Iraq on Saturday, according to police and medical sources. The violence erupted as police and army forces searched for militants hiding in farmland areas in the town of Khan Bani Saad.

Two police colonels reported that the clashes were ongoing, with militants employing snipers to hinder the advance of police and soldiers. One of the injured officers is in critical condition.

Iraq's security situation has seen relative stability in recent years, following the turmoil of the 2003 U.S.-led invasion and subsequent sectarian conflicts. Currently, Baghdad aims to reduce the presence of the U.S-led international coalition, which remains as advisory forces, by bolstering its own security operations.

(With inputs from agencies.)