Masrour Barzani Warns of "Deep Concern" Over Coalition Withdrawal, Leaving Kurdistan Region Exposed Without Adequate Defenses

Masrour Barzani, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, has expressed deep concern regarding the region being left exposed and without protective defense systems following the withdrawal of the international coalition forces. Speaking to the "Financial Times," Barzani explained that the timing of the withdrawal of US and international coalition forces from Iraq is "highly sensitive," noting that the Kurdistan Region has endured over a thousand rocket attacks and drone assaults. He affirmed that the ongoing state of security instability in Iraq poses an "explicit threat to the foundations of the federal system." Barzani further stated that the region values its close friendship and alliance with the United States of America, while simultaneously endeavoring to build balanced and good-neighborly relations with all countries in the region, including the Islamic Republic of Iran. He reported that continuous dialogues and communications are underway with Iranian officials, where it has been repeatedly emphasized that the Kurdistan Region is not a party to any war or conflict and keeps itself away from being a launching point for threatening the security of any party. He also pointed out that the presence of Iranian opposition forces in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region is not a recent development but extends back for many years, with roots tracing to the era of the previous regime. The Prime Minister reaffirmed his full support for the efforts of Prime Minister Ali Al-Zaidi in his endeavors to combat corruption, disarm factions, and resolve outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad based on constitutional frameworks. He emphasized the region's full readiness to dedicate all its capabilities to support the federal government in maximizing public revenues and overcoming obstacles and challenges. He also stressed the continuation of efforts and discussions toward reactivating the Kurdistan Parliament and forming the new cabinet for the Kurdistan Regional Government.