Peshmerga women train in difficult winter conditions

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Female peshmerga soliders undergo military training in harsh winter conditions.

Members of Erbil''s 80th Infantry Unit participated in a three-month training course in Soran. 

Five training courses have taken place so far, using light and heavy weaponry.

The new initiative is the first time women have participated in high-level military training. 

"As the daughter of a Peshmerga,  I am happy that I participated in the training course within the Erbil Infantry Forces in Soran. I am honored to follow in the footsteps of my father and grandparents," Ashna Hassan told Rudaw. 

Kurdistan's Peshmerga forces have been instrumental in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS). 

Being a peshmerga is a "childhood dream," Fatma Ismail told Rudaw, adding that they are following in the "path of our ancestors."

Reporting by Rangin Sharo

Translation by Sarkawt Mohammed