Battle of Kilinochchi (2008–2009)

The Battle of Kilinochchi was a major military offensive and a series of battles fought between the Sri Lankan military and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) for control of the town of Kilinochchi, the administrative capital of the LTTE's de facto state in the Vanni region of northern Sri Lanka. The battle took place between November 2008 and January 2009, as part of the broader Sri Lankan Civil War.

The Sri Lankan Army launched a multi-pronged offensive, aiming to capture Kilinochchi and weaken the LTTE's control over the region. The fighting was intense, characterized by trench warfare, artillery bombardments, and close-quarters combat. Both sides suffered heavy casualties.

After months of fighting, the Sri Lankan Army captured Kilinochchi on January 2, 2009. The capture of Kilinochchi was a significant strategic victory for the Sri Lankan government, as it represented a major blow to the LTTE's power and morale. While the LTTE continued to fight in other areas, the loss of Kilinochchi marked a turning point in the war.

The battle also resulted in a significant displacement of civilians, who were caught in the crossfire. Many civilians fled the area seeking refuge in government-controlled territories or other parts of the Vanni region. Humanitarian organizations struggled to provide assistance to the displaced population.

The Battle of Kilinochchi is considered a key event in the final stages of the Sri Lankan Civil War, ultimately leading to the defeat of the LTTE in May 2009.