Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has rejected claims of ties with Israel. He also reaffirmed Baghdad’s authority over Iraq’s national foreign policy.
Barzani made the remarks during a recent interview about regional tensions and security concerns. He said the Kurdistan Region has no relationship with Israel. He also stressed that national foreign policy belongs to Iraq’s federal government.
The prime minister said the Kurdistan Region does not want involvement in regional conflicts. Instead, its government wants to protect its territory and population from wider instability.
Barzani said the Region has faced more than 1,000 missile and drone attacks. He attributed these attacks to Iran or armed militia groups operating from within Iraq.
Consequently, security remains a major concern for the Kurdistan Regional Government. However, Barzani emphasized that the Region does not seek confrontation with neighboring countries.
He also supported Baghdad’s policy of placing weapons under the control of official state institutions. This position reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen state authority over armed groups.
Meanwhile, Barzani rejected claims that US forces continue operating from Harir Airbase. He said the facility has not hosted American troops for approximately ten years.
His comments come as regional tensions continue to affect Iraq and neighboring countries. Therefore, the Kurdistan Region faces growing security challenges while seeking to avoid direct involvement in wider conflicts.
Barzani also described relations with Türkiye as very good and based on cooperation. He said relations with Damascus remain good and continue to develop.
These relationships remain important for the Region’s political and economic interests. In particular, stable ties with neighboring countries can support trade, investment, and cross-border cooperation.
Overall, Barzani’s remarks reinforce the Region’s stated policy of avoiding regional wars. The government also wants Baghdad to retain responsibility for national foreign policy.
Going forward, the Kurdistan Regional Government is expected to focus on territorial security. At the same time, it will seek diplomatic cooperation while protecting its economic and political interests.