Iraqi KDP’s Barzani labels terrorist group PKK’s presence in Syria ‘major problem’

President of the Iraqi Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP), Masoud Barzani, described the terrorist organization PKK’s presence in Syria as a “major problem,” emphasizing that Kurds in Syria should seek their rights through peaceful dialogue and negotiation.

Barzani shared his views during an interview with Erbil-based Shams TV, discussing current regional issues, including the situation in Syria and the Kurdish Region of Iraq.

Barzani on Syria’s future

Barzani noted signs of the Assad regime’s decline, stating, “The regime was on the verge of collapse in 2011, but it was propped up by Iran, Russia, and Hezbollah.” While he expressed hope for the new Syrian administration to recognize Kurdish realities, he urged Syrian Kurds to resolve their issues peacefully.

“Kurds should strive to secure their rights through dialogue and peaceful methods,” he said. He also reiterated his stance against the PKK’s involvement in Syria, declaring, “The time has come for the PKK to leave Syrian Kurds alone. Their presence in Syria is a major problem.” Barzani mentioned his intention to visit Qamishli when circumstances permit.

Regional politics and relations with Türkiye

Barzani commented on the ongoing government formation in the Iraqi Kurdish Regional Government (KRG), stating there were no vetoes against anyone and expressing optimism that the cabinet would be formed within two months, before Iraq‘s elections.

On relations with Türkiye, Barzani highlighted the significance of cooperation for regional stability: “Our official meetings always emphasized the brotherhood between Kurds and Turks. This language, introduced in 2009 by (President) Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was unprecedented. It was the first time I heard a commitment to solving the Kurdish issue in Türkiye.”

KDP official condemns PKK’s terror attack in Duhok, Iraq

Separately, KDP Duhok Representative Serbest Lezgin criticized the PKK for decades of violence against civilians, Peshmerga members, and local officials in the Kurdish Region.

Speaking at the funeral of an Iraqi border guard killed by PKK terrorists, Lezgin condemned their actions.

“PKK has been oppressing our people for decades without reason. They have targeted our leaders, planted explosives on roads, and killed Peshmerga. Innocent civilians, including farmers, have been martyred in their own homes,” he said.

Lezgin described the PKK as a “destructive force” causing immense harm to the Kurdish Region and its people. He called for an end to the violence and expressed hope for a future free of PKK interference. “This cannot continue. Those who oppress us know they cannot sustain this any longer,” he concluded.