The Kurdistan Region of Iraq has officially reached an advanced stage in its sweeping military reform process. Consequently, the Ministry of Peshmerga will soon control 11 unified military divisions under a single, cohesive command structure. Osman Mohammed, a senior ministry official, shared these important updates during a recent national broadcast. He described the integration of these forces as a highly significant achievement for the region.
Previously, two separate military structures administered these troops independently of one another. However, extensive institutional efforts have successfully brought all units under a single, legitimate regional authority. Furthermore, military leadership has completed the full reorganization of Area Command One. This command now oversees six unified military divisions across its designated territory.
Area Command Two still faces a few minor administrative challenges. Nevertheless, senior officials expect these remaining issues to be fully resolved by September 2026. This second regional command will ultimately control five unified divisions under the new framework. Following this development, the ministry will launch a major new phase of professional development focused on modern military education and advanced tactical training for all personnel.
Mohammed praised Prime Minister Masrour Barzani for his steady and continuous leadership, stating that the Prime Minister has actively advanced this security strategy over the past five years. As a result, all active forces now operate under strict legal guidelines and receive equal financial treatment.
The ministry has successfully integrated its central accounting systems into a single centralized bank account. Currently, 97 percent of all Peshmerga personnel receive their monthly salaries through modern digital banking systems. At the same time, international coalition partners continue to provide vital strategic support. Representatives from the global coalition recently attended the formal integration launch ceremony in Erbil.
While Mohammed strongly criticized Baghdad for failing to fulfill its constitutional duties and for withholding financial and logistical support from the Peshmerga forces, these regional units continue to carry out their vital security missions. Two joint brigades, for example, continue to operate alongside the Iraqi Army in efforts against terrorist groups.
Minister of Peshmerga Shoresh Ismail formally confirmed that the restructuring process has entered its final phase. He emphasized that institutional improvement is a continuous, long-term journey and described the reforms as the beginning of a historic new era of unity, professionalism, and cooperation.