PUK Vows Kurdistan Region Will Not Be Used Against Iran

The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) has reaffirmed that Iraq and the Kurdistan Region will not allow their territory to be used to threaten the security of neighboring countries, particularly Iran. PUK leader Bafel Talabani made the remarks during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran, stressing the need for closer coordination between Iran and Iraq to implement their bilateral security agreement and disarm groups posing security threats.

Talabani said Iraq and the Kurdistan Region would “never allow” their territory to become a base for activities threatening Iran or other regional states. Leading a high-level delegation to Tehran, he also called for expanded cooperation with Iran in security, trade and economic affairs, describing Tehran as a longstanding supporter of the Iraqi people and emphasizing the historic ties between Iran, Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

Araghchi said Iran was ready to strengthen relations with the Kurdistan Region, particularly Sulaymaniyah, through greater trade, economic exchanges and security coordination along the shared border. He warned against terrorist activities and attempts by hostile actors to exploit border tensions, while urging Kurdish groups and regional states to remain vigilant against alleged “false flag” operations designed to create divisions. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said Talabani’s visit was focused on bilateral relations, economic cooperation and border security as part of continuing consultations between Tehran, Baghdad and the Kurdistan Region.