Tahseen Wsu Abdullah
In the contemporary history of Kurdistan, the Peshmerga has been a symbol of resilience, sacrifice, and the defense of land and identity. However, the fact that a portion of these forces remains under partisan influence has always been viewed as a point of weakness, negatively impacting the domestic and international standing of the Kurdistan Region. Therefore, consolidating these forces under the umbrella of the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs is not merely a military necessity, but a national and political imperative.
From a domestic perspective, the unification of the Peshmerga will put an end to the hidden dual administration and political divergence. When weapons and force are concentrated in the hands of a national, legal institution, citizens’ trust in the political system is strengthened. This step will prevent the use of armed force for internal conflicts and pave the way for permanent stability. The political entity of the Kurdistan Region can only confront external challenges when it builds a united home front that is resilient against internal threats. A unified force means a unified political decision, which in turn establishes the rule of law in the region.
At the level of Iraq and the region, the Kurdistan Region faces numerous rapid changes and pressures. The existence of a professional, unified army strengthens the Region’s position in negotiations with the federal government. When Baghdad or neighboring countries see that the Kurdistan Region possesses an organized, national force, they will treat it with a different level of respect and as a strong constitutional entity. This unity prevents external parties from creating rifts within the Kurdish house or exploiting political disputes to weaken the Region’s entity.
On the other hand, the international relations of the Kurdistan Region, particularly with Western allies, are tied to reforms in the military sector. In recent years, the international community and coalition forces have consistently emphasized the need to unify the 70 and 80 forces. Their logistical and military assistance to the Peshmerga depends on the progress of this process. Therefore, the success of this reform not only helps modernize the Peshmerga but also protects the Region’s strategic alliances with the outside world and guarantees the continuation of international support.
In terms of military and security, the unification of the Peshmerga will lead to a higher level of discipline, the reorganization of personnel, and the fair distribution of budgets and weaponry. This will multiply the forces’ defensive capabilities against threats such as terrorism and illegal armed groups. When the Peshmerga’s loyalty is solely dedicated to the flag and the homeland, the spirit of sacrifice and patriotism will reach its peak.
In conclusion, the unification of the Peshmerga forces is not just a technical project, but the beginning of a new era for statecraft and the protection of the achievements of the people of Kurdistan. This step is the main pillar for safeguarding the Region’s political entity against future storms. For the Kurdistan Region to remain a strong and respected entity, all political parties must prioritize the supreme national interest over partisan interests and bring the Peshmerga unification process to a swift and definitive conclusion.