As the conflict in Iran intensifies with continued airstrikes from the US and Israel, Iranian Kurdish opposition groups based in northern Iraq are contemplating a significant shift in strategy—potentially crossing the border into Iran. While these groups have long prepared for such an eventuality, they assert that no action has been taken yet. Their leaders stress the necessity of external support, particularly from the US, before they can make any move.
Long-standing Preparations for Action
Hana Yazdanpana, a representative of the Kurdistan Freedom Party (PAK), emphasised that the Kurdish forces have been ready for this moment for nearly half a century. “We have been preparing for this for the past 47 years, since the establishment of the Islamic Republic,” she stated. Despite the ongoing discussions about an imminent Kurdish advance, Yazdanpana clarified, “not a single Peshmerga has moved.” The Peshmerga, meaning “those who face death,” represents the Kurdish fighters whose actions are carefully coordinated among multiple opposition groups now working together.
Yazdanpana indicated that any movement by Kurdish forces is contingent upon the US conducting air operations to neutralise threats from Iranian military capabilities. “We can’t move if the air above us is not cleared,” she explained. The urgency for a no-fly zone to protect Kurdish fighters has been communicated to US officials, as they seek assurances that their advance would not be met with devastating retaliation from Iranian forces.
The Complex Geopolitical Landscape
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing military activities in Iran, which have included missile strikes against Kurdish bases. One such attack recently resulted in the death of a PAK fighter, highlighting the grave risks Kurdish forces face. In response, many groups have relocated their personnel and equipment in a bid to avoid further casualties.
The Kurdish community, which comprises approximately 10% of Iran’s 90 million people, has a long and painful history of persecution. Kurdish leaders are acutely aware of the precariousness of relying on foreign powers. Mustafa Mauludi, vice-president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party of Iran (KDPI), shared a pragmatic perspective, noting, “America and Israel did not begin this war for our hopes, but for their own interests.” While they acknowledge that the current conflict could present an opportunity, uncertainty looms regarding the reliability of US support.
The Kurdish Perspective on Foreign Support
Despite their reservations, Kurdish leaders remain hopeful about the possible benefits of US military action against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Mauludi recalled his personal family history of loss and persecution, stating, “When I get to the first village, I will say with a loud voice: ‘I have been fighting for you, you are my people, and now I will fight even more.’” The desire for change is palpable, as Kurdish leaders urge the international community to stand with them. Abdullah Mohtadi, secretary general of the Komala Party of Iranian Kurdistan, lamented the UK’s reluctance to designate the IRGC as a terrorist entity, expressing disappointment in the lack of robust support from Western allies.
The Dilemma for Iraq and the Kurdish Community
As Kurdish forces contemplate action, Iraq itself faces a precarious position. The Baghdad government has stated that it will not permit any groups to use its territory to launch attacks into Iran. This stance complicates the potential for Kurdish fighters to cross the border, as they would risk inciting further conflict in the region.
Yazdanpana reflected on the emotional weight of such a venture, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of returning to her homeland. “Going back to my land will be very emotional,” she said, contemplating the sacrifices made by previous generations.
Why it Matters
The developments in this ongoing conflict hold significant implications not only for the Kurdish people but also for the broader geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. The potential for Kurdish forces to engage directly in the conflict against Iran could reshape alliances and power dynamics in the region. As the Kurdish community navigates a precarious path between hope and uncertainty, the international community’s response will be crucial in determining their fate and the future stability of Iran.