Al Jazeera • 2/21/2026 – 3/5/2026

Iranian Kurdish militias have been consulting with the United States regarding potential military operations against Iranian security forces. These discussions have taken place in recent days, with the Kurdish groups based in the semi-autonomous region of Iraqi Kurdistan, particularly along the Iran-Iraq border. The coalition of Iranian Kurdish groups has been training to execute such an attack, aiming to weaken the Iranian regime's military capabilities. This initiative comes amid ongoing U.S. and Israeli military actions targeting Iranian positions. Former ambassador Peter Galbraith, who has previously served as an advisor to the Kurdistan Regional Government in northern Iraq, highlighted the complexities of the situation. He noted that the notion of Iranian Kurds placing trust in U.S. assurances would be "pretty reckless," reflecting a historical context of betrayals and pragmatic alliances that have characterized U.S.-Kurdish relations. The Kurdish groups are weighing the potential benefits of a rebellion against Iran against the backdrop of past experiences with U.S. support. The discussions between the U.S. and Kurdish militias indicate a strategic interest in destabilizing Iranian power, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions in the region. However, the Kurdish factions are cautious, considering the implications of aligning with U.S. interests and the potential consequences of such military actions. The situation remains fluid as the Kurdish groups deliberate their next steps in response to U.S. encouragement.
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