Iraqi Army detains Peshmerga members from the 9th Brigade at a checkpoint in Khurmatu. Officials cited “carrying weapons” as the reason for the arrests, immediately drawing attention from both federal and regional authorities. The incident has sparked debate over constitutional authority and the balance of power between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region.
Local sources reported that the checkpoint was part of routine security operations, but tensions rose when the Peshmerga members refused to comply fully with the Iraqi Army’s inspection protocols. Security personnel identified the weapons and subsequently detained the three individuals for questioning. The arrests have since become a focal point for discussions on the legal rights of regional forces versus federal jurisdiction.
Peshmerga officials condemned the detentions, stressing that their personnel operate under regional legal frameworks. They asserted that carrying arms is part of their standard security responsibilities, especially in areas near sensitive checkpoints. The Kurdish authorities called on Baghdad to clarify the legal basis for the arrests and to ensure that regional forces’ operational autonomy is respected.
Meanwhile, the Iraqi Army detains Peshmerga maintained that it acted in accordance with federal law. Officials emphasized that carrying weapons outside of designated protocols constitutes a violation and that security forces must enforce the law uniformly. They also urged all armed groups to cooperate with checkpoints to maintain public safety and order.
Analysts note that incidents like this highlight longstanding tensions between Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region over security control. Constitutional disputes often arise when federal and regional authorities operate simultaneously in contested areas. Local residents expressed concern that such detentions could escalate tensions and potentially trigger protests.
Both sides have agreed to maintain dialogue in the coming days to resolve the issue peacefully. Officials stressed the importance of upholding both federal law and regional security mandates.
Ultimately, the Khurmatu checkpoint incident underscores the ongoing challenges in Iraq’s complex security environment. It demonstrates the fragile balance between federal authority and regional autonomy, highlighting the need for careful negotiation and cooperation.