Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), has voiced serious concerns regarding the security implications of the region's vulnerability and the threat to its safety due to the absence of necessary defense systems after the withdrawal of
international coalition forces. In statements to the "Financial Times," Barzani clarified that the decision to withdraw U.S. and international coalition forces from Iraq comes at a highly sensitive time. He noted that the region has suffered over a thousand missile attacks
and drone assaults. He emphasized that leaving the area without any protective defense systems raises extreme concern, affirming that the continued security instability in Iraq poses a clear threat to the foundations of the federal system. Barzani highlighted the KRG's appreciation
for its deep friendship and alliance with the United States, while underscoring its commitment to building balanced and good-neighborly relations with all countries in the region, including the Islamic Republic of Iran. He mentioned ongoing dialogues with Iranian officials, where
it has been repeatedly reiterated that the Kurdistan Region is not a party to any conflict and distances itself from being a launching point for threatening any party's security. He pointed out that the presence of Iranian opposition forces within Iraq
and the Kurdistan Region is not new, but has a long history dating back to the era of the former regime. Furthermore, Barzani affirmed his full support for Prime Minister Ali Al-Zeidi's efforts in combating corruption, disarming armed factions, and resolving
outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad based on constitutional frameworks. He also expressed the KRG's complete readiness to dedicate all its capabilities to support the federal government in maximizing public revenues and overcoming challenges. He stressed that diligent efforts and
discussions are continuing towards reactivating the Kurdistan Parliament and forming the KRG's new cabinet.
