As regional tensions escalate due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is strategically navigating its position. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasizes the importance of maintaining peace while supporting the Iraqi government’s efforts to consolidate state control over armed groups. His statements reflect a desire for dialogue and cooperation amid a landscape threatened by external pressures and violence.
Masrour Barzani, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in northern Iraq, has recently reiterated his administration’s position on the ongoing regional conflict sparked by the United States and Israel’s actions in Iran. In an exclusive interview with ZezapTV, Barzani stated that the semi-autonomous Kurdish region has no intention of becoming embroiled in the conflict, affirming its support for the Iraqi government’s initiative to regulate the possession of weapons.
Barzani addressed the situation comprehensively, asserting, “No party has pressured us to get involved in the war, and we do not want to be a party to any conflict in the region.” This statement underscores the KRG’s commitment to avoiding escalation and prioritizing regional stability. He highlighted the significant damage inflicted on regional infrastructure, citing over 1,000 missile and drone attacks since the outbreak of the conflict on February 28. These assaults, often attributed to Iranian forces or Iranian-aligned militias operating in Iraq, have garnered Barzani’s condemnation as “unjustified.” He advocated for resolving disputes through peaceful dialogue rather than through violence.
Pointing out recent provocations, Barzani mentioned an attack on the al-Harir Air Base near Erbil by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which labeled the facility as a base for the “invading US army.” Clarifying factual inaccuracies regarding this claim, Barzani noted that the base has not hosted US troops for nearly a decade, with the remaining American presence focused on combating terrorism. He reaffirmed that ongoing strikes against US forces in Erbil highlight the complexities of the security situation in the region.
The KRG also expressed its support for the Iraqi government’s intentions to bring armed factions under state control. In a parliamentary address in May, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali a-Zaidi announced plans for the state to monopolize arms and set a deadline of September 30 for all paramilitary groups to disarm.
In terms of diplomatic relations, Barzani disclosed that the KRG does not maintain ties with Israel, but is instead strengthening connections with neighboring Syria and Turkey, reflected in recent cooperative initiatives. This bilateral engagement is further illustrated by KRG President Nechirvan Barzani’s recent visit to Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, which marked a significant diplomatic milestone for the Kurdish region.
Meanwhile, the situation remains tense for Iranian Kurdish opposition parties, which have found themselves increasingly on alert due to the dynamics of the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. The potential involvement of Iranian Kurdish factions in this broader struggle adds another layer of complexity, as discussions arise regarding the possibility of these fighters tipping the balance of power within Iran itself, where Kurds account for approximately 10 percent of the population.
Through these challenges, the KRG’s leadership emphasizes a commitment to peace and stability, striving to navigate a path that avoids unnecessary involvement in regional conflicts while promoting cooperation and dialogue.
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