The assault, quickly claimed by the Islamic State (ISIS/ Daesh / ISIL) group, was likely aimed at diverting authorities’ attention for the battle to retake ISIS-held Mosul.
Multiple explosions rocked the city and gun battles continued, according to witnesses who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were concerned for their safety.
They said much of the fighting was centered on a government compound in the city, although a Kurdish TV channel quoted Kirkuk Governor Najmadin Karim as saying that the militants have not seized any government buildings.
Rudaw TV, a Kurdish TV channel, also said that all the militants who took part in the Kirkuk assault have been killed except for two who are holed up in a damaged building.
There was no immediate word on casualties among civilians or Kurdish forces.
Meanwhile, Iraqi police said three Islamic State militants have stormed a power plant north of the city of Kirkuk, killing 11 workers, including two Iranians, before blowing themselves up.
S/SH 11