Barzani’s Latest Stance on Iran
Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, told Al-Sharq Al-Awsat that the region respects its relations with all countries, including Iran. He emphasized that Kurdistan has never engaged in conspiracies against neighboring states nor been a source of threat to them.
He noted Iran as an critically important neighbor to both Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. “We share a long border with Iran,” he said.”iranians are understandably concerned about their national security. The Kurdistan Region respects its ties with all countries,including Iran.” Barzani reassured that Kurdish authorities have never conspired against or threatened neighboring nations.
Barzani added, “In many cases, we witness accusations and exaggerations made by some parties against Kurdistan. Yet at the same time, we see Iranian officials visiting Kurdistan and expressing gratitude for our responsible approach.”
Regarding Syria, he stated: “We cannot interfere in Syrian affairs as it is a sovereign country.We have offered to mediate between the new Syrian government and Syrian Kurds. We support a stable Syria.”
On U.S. support for the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, Barzani said: ”The United States is one of our closest allies and partners. We seek to deepen our relationship with America.”
Addressing questions on potential conflict involving Israel and the United States against Iran, he remarked: ”No one desires war. Weakening regional security and stability harms every country involved. We hope new peace talks take place so current instability will be replaced by security and stability.”
Responding specifically about Israeli threats toward Iran, Barzani added: “We do not want war; we hope negotiations and dialog will replace threats and conflict.”
