Barzani calls for urgent talks between KRG and Baghdad to resolve disputes

Kurdistan Democratic Party President Masoud Barzani issued a call Monday for Iraq's federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government to convene urgent talks aimed at resolving long-standing disputes. In a statement reported by the Erbil-based Rudaw Media Network, Barzani warned that Iraq is under threat from various crises as political conflicts between parties continue to escalate.

Warning against opportunists

Barzani specifically cautioned against actions by "opportunistic individuals who want to deepen the crisis and problems," suggesting that internal divisions could be exploited amid the region's deteriorating security situation. His remarks reflect growing concern that Iraq's internal political conflicts could be exacerbated by external pressures as the wider Middle East conflict expands.

Regional war adds pressure

The Kurdish leader's call for unity comes as regional tensions have reached a fever pitch since Israel and the US launched joint attacks on Iran on Feb. 28. The offensive has killed approximately 1,300 people, including former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and triggered Iranian retaliation with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries hosting US military assets. Iraq has found itself increasingly caught in the crossfire, with Iranian strikes and US responses playing out on its territory, adding urgency to internal Iraqi efforts to present a unified front.

Domestic disputes compound external threats

Iraq's federal government and the KRG have been locked in disputes over oil revenues, budget allocations and territorial control for years. Barzani's intervention suggests a recognition that these internal divisions weaken Iraq's ability to navigate the dangerous regional environment and that a coordinated approach between Baghdad and Erbil is essential for national security.