An investigation conducted by the Conflict Armament Research (CAR) and Sahan Research shows that the ISIS utilizes chemically induced weapons at Kurdish forces in the Middle East; therefore, soldiers are experiencing impaired mobility and burning throats in the attacks. In June, the chemical weapons were utilized by ISIS in both Syria and Iraq. (This information was based in part by a statement that was released by ISIS.)
In a statement on Friday, last week, the YPG mentioned that the attacks targeted Kurdish positions south of the town of Tel Brak and the Kurdish-held Salhiya district of Hasakeh city. According to the YPG, upon impact, the projectiles began to release a yellow gas that contained a very strong smell that was similar to rotten onions.
To be specific, the YPG stated that the ground where the impact took place was stained with a liquid that was green to the view at first, but when sunlight began to hit it, it rapidly turned yellow. The YPG stated that their troops that were exposed to the gas, rapidly experienced impaired mobility and concentration, muscle pain, and/or the burning of the nose, eyes, and throat, combined with severe headaches. Prolonged exposure to those chemicals unfortunately caused vomiting in some individuals.
Thankfully, the YPG reported no deaths. Those who were exposed to chemicals were quickly taken to hospital to undergo some tests. Subsequently, they recovered from their symptoms in a short period of time.
From ISIS forces, YPG fighters have been able to capture gas masks of industrial-grade, conforming that they are equipped and thus prepared for chemical warfare.
In a joint statement, the Sahan Research and CAR said that seven projectiles were fired in Hasakeh, while seventeen projectiles were fired near Tal Brak. From those individuals affected near Tal Brak, urine samples were tested. The results turned out to be positive for a compound that is usually found in agricultural pesticides.
However, the precise chemical composition of the agents that were utilized in the two attacks that took place in Syria are yet to be known. On the other hand, the chemical that was utilized in the Iraq attack has been characterized as a chlorine chemical agent.
