General Zebari stresses Peshmerga’s importance in regional stability and urges international support for heavy weapons to bolster defense capabilities
The arrival of another U.S. aid convoy for Peshmerga forces, despite criticism from certain Iraqi officials regarding the provision of heavy weapons, underscores the global acknowledgment of Peshmerga’s legitimate role in maintaining stability in Iraq and the Middle East. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani reaffirmed this stance at the 29th graduation ceremony of Zakho Military College, stating, “Peshmerga is not a threat; Peshmerga is the protector of Iraq, Kurdistan, and humanity.”
This statement was made in response to debates following the delivery of M119 105mm howitzers to Kurdish forces by the U.S. in August.
General Babaker Zebari, military advisor to the Region’s President, told The Kurdish Globe: “The Peshmerga’s right to receive these weapons is firmly grounded, both legally and strategically. Peshmerga heroically defends Kurdistan’s territory and maintains regional stability; thus, it deserves heavy weapons.” Addressing concerns from some Iraqi forces regarding this support, Zebari explained: “The Iraqi Ministry of Defense has confirmed that the transfer was previously approved by Baghdad, legitimizing the delivery of these weapons by the U.S. and solidifying the Peshmerga’s role as an official component of Iraq’s defense forces. Peshmerga is not an illegal force to be denied weapons; it was established under Iraq’s constitution and is part of the national security structure.”
He added, “The Peshmerga’s vital role in maintaining stability in the Kurdistan Region was especially evident during the ISIS crisis in 2014, when they shattered the myth of ISIS invincibility and neutralized a threat to Europe. At a time when ISIS was strong and armed groups were prepared to seize control of the region, Peshmerga sacrificed thousands of martyrs to keep this terrorist threat at bay. It is, therefore, the international community’s duty to support Peshmerga. Without Peshmerga, ISIS could have easily occupied Kirkuk, its oil fields, and surrounding areas—clearly illustrating this force’s critical role in regional security.”
General Zebari further explained: “While other Iraqi factions have acquired advanced weapons, such as drones and ballistic missiles—often risking Iraq’s involvement in wider regional conflicts—Peshmerga operates with relatively simple military equipment. Despite this, a mentality persists that resists Peshmerga’s access to heavy weapons. Now, as Peshmerga collaborates with the Iraqi army to secure gaps in disputed areas exploited by ISIS remnants, it becomes clear how Peshmerga’s capabilities strengthen, not weaken, Iraq’s overall security.”
Zebari also stated that Peshmerga currently needs additional equipment, including drones and air defense systems, as recent attacks, such as on the Kormor gas field, have compromised regional security. Therefore, coalition forces must continue supporting and training Peshmerga, as many countries have vested economic interests in Kurdistan. For these interests and for their security, they should take this step. The Peshmerga’s established history of defending not only the Kurdistan Region but all of Iraq, coupled with their cooperation with Iraqi security forces, underscores their position as legitimate recipients of international military aid. A well-equipped Peshmerga force not only serves Kurdish interests but also contributes significantly to Iraq’s national security and regional stability.