Barzani: Iran Ready to Assist Iraq on Arms Monopoly Issue

The President of the Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, revealed on Wednesday that Iranian officials have expressed readiness to assist Iraq in its efforts to monopolize arms. In televised statements, Barzani emphasized that weapons must be exclusively under state authority and at the command of the Iraqi Prime Minister, who serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. He highlighted that challenges emerge when collective efforts are lacking, underscoring the shared destiny of the country, from its northern to southern regions. Barzani further stated that during his recent visit to Tehran, Iranian officials conveyed their willingness to support the Iraqi Prime Minister in consolidating state control over weaponry, noting that this message has already been communicated to him. He confirmed that Iranian officials overseeing the Iraqi file affirmed their commitment to aiding a neighboring nation, stressing that Iraq's stability aligns with Iran's interests. Additionally, Barzani detailed the extensive trade exchange between Iraq and Iran, including electricity and gas sales, which generates over $15 billion in annual profits.