Armed clashes erupted between Iraqi and Peshmarga forces in southern Kirkuk on Monday, an Iraqi security source said.

Gunfire sounds were heard in many areas of the governorate.

The clashes broke out after Baghdad sent troops towards Kurdish-held sites in Kirkuk governorate.

Tensions between the two sides over the future of Iraqi Kurdistan have been high since Iraqi Kurds voted for independence in a September referendum.

Baghdad wants to retake bases and oil fields taken by Kurdish Peshmerga fighters in 2014.

Source: MENA