The President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party, Masoud Barzani, praised the role of the international coalition forces in combating terrorism and restoring stability in Iraq, while affirming that there is good coordination with the federal government to face any type of threats or dangers.
Barzani stated in a statement received by the news agency, "According to the agreement between the international coalition forces and the Iraqi federal government, today, September 30, 2026, is the last day for the coalition forces' missions in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region," pointing out that "the coalition forces supported the Iraqi forces and the Peshmerga in the war against terrorism, as well as in the restoration and strengthening of stability in Iraq."
He added that "the international coalition forces provided significant support during their presence to the Iraqi forces and Peshmerga, and made great sacrifices. After the completion of their mission now, it remains the responsibility of the Iraqi government and the Kurdistan Region in the future to conclude bilateral agreements with coalition countries based on the available circumstances and in a way that serves to maintain stability."
He expressed "gratitude to the coalition forces for their efforts and dedication, as their role in defeating ISIS and restoring stability to Iraq is highly appreciated and respected," praising "the souls of all the martyrs from the Peshmerga, the Iraqi forces, and the coalition forces, and their memory will always remain immortal and present in our minds."
He continued, "Many people believe out of concern, and others out of hatred and enmity or inaccurate interpretations, that the departure of the coalition forces will make the region vulnerable to threats or even disappearance. Therefore, I would like to reassure the dear people of Kurdistan that there is very good coordination with the Iraqi federal government to face any type of threats or dangers, whether they are under the name of ISIS or any other label."
He mentioned: "I say to any party or entity that may think it can threaten the stability of the Kurdistan Region or harm it, that they must fully realize that Kurdistan has enough Peshmerga forces and heroes, and national volunteers ready to defend the people of Kurdistan and its land and thwart any threat or aggression," pointing out that "the Peshmerga forces of Kurdistan, rooted in the history of the liberation struggle of the Kurdish people, stemming from the blood of martyrs and the tears of their mothers, will always be present and enduring."
He noted that "the Peshmerga forces of Kurdistan, in full coordination with the federal forces, are fully prepared to defend and maintain stability in the country and to prevent all forms of threats and dangers."