SLEMANI — Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has called for urgent international assistance to strengthen the region’s air defense capabilities, warning that continued attacks by Iranian-made drones and Iran-backed militias are leaving the region increasingly vulnerable.
In an interview with Al-Monitor, Barzani said the Kurdistan Region has faced more than 1,000 attacks since the start of the US-Israel war against Iran on February 28, with the latest incident occurring last Monday when explosive-laden drones targeted his private office.
“We have never posed a threat to the security of any of our neighbors. They are simply trying to intimidate us and perhaps drag us into a conflict that we strongly oppose,” Barzani said.
Addressing Iran’s denials of involvement, the Kurdish prime minister said the drones used in recent attacks were Iranian-made Hadid Turbo models that originated from Iran.
“Iranian authorities need to clarify how a drone that no one else possesses is being used by another party,” Barzani said.
Barzani also expressed concern over the withdrawal of US military personnel, training and support capabilities, and Patriot air defense systems from the Kurdistan Region.
“So far, we have not been enabled to own an effective system to protect ourselves. The withdrawal of these defense systems undoubtedly leaves us vulnerable,” Barzani said. “I ask all our friends to help us build these capabilities so that we can defend ourselves.”
The comments come amid the reported withdrawal of US forces and air defense systems from the area around Erbil International Airport.
According to an Al-Monitor report published on August 1, several informed sources said US forces had begun withdrawing from positions near the airport, while Patriot systems used to intercept missiles and drones had been removed from the US military base.
The sources said the withdrawal began the previous week and remained ongoing, with most US personnel and heavy military equipment reportedly moved out. They also said that all Patriot systems had been relocated elsewhere, although other defensive capabilities remained in place.
Kurdistan Region officials have described the withdrawal as a routine measure under an agreement between Washington and Baghdad providing for the complete withdrawal of US forces from Iraq by September 30.
However, the timing has raised concerns in Erbil, as the withdrawal of US air defense capabilities comes amid continued drone and missile threats against the Kurdistan Region.
Barzani has repeatedly called for the region to be equipped with effective air defense systems, arguing that the Kurdistan Region needs the capability to protect its population and institutions against attacks while avoiding being drawn into broader regional conflicts.
