Kurdistan Region PM seeks enhanced air defense after drone attacks

Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), is calling for enhanced air defense capabilities following drone attacks targeting his private office and the home of the KRG Security Council director. The attacks, which occurred on Monday, were reportedly launched from Iranian territory, according to regional security agencies.

Barzani described the incidents as a dangerous escalation and an attempt to intimidate the region. He noted that there have been more than 1,000 such attacks on the Kurdistan Region since late February. While the KRG denies hosting groups that threaten neighboring countries, Iran and its-backed militias have frequently targeted the region, citing concerns over Iranian Kurdish opposition groups.

Expressing concern over the potential drawdown of US training forces and the redeployment of Patriot air defense systems, Barzani warned that the region remains vulnerable. He emphasized the need for effective systems to protect against ongoing threats to both political leadership and critical energy infrastructure, such as oil and gas fields.