Kurdistan Regional Government declares neutrality as Middle East conflict intensifies across neighboring states

The Kurdistan Regional Government states it will not join the regional war or allow its territory to be used for escalation amid US-Israel-Iran strikes.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 5, 2026, 7:09 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from IraqiNews

Official stance on regional escalation

A spokesperson for Iraq’s Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has clarified that the semi autonomous region is not part of any effort to expand the ongoing war or escalate tensions in the Middle East. Amid the intensifying conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, the KRG emphasized its commitment to regional stability. The administration in Erbil declared that it will not permit its territory to be utilized as a staging ground or a corridor for military actions that would further broaden the theater of operations.

Response to diplomatic engagements

The KRG’s statement serves as a formal response to recent diplomatic developments, including reported telephone conversations between U.S. President Donald Trump and prominent Kurdish leaders Masoud Barzani and Bafel Talabani. While the details of these discussions remain private, they occurred during a period where the United States is reportedly exploring potential partnerships with various regional groups. By issuing this public refusal to join the conflict, Kurdish leadership is attempting to navigate the complex pressure between its Western allies and its immediate neighbor.

Speculation regarding Kurdish opposition groups

The declaration of neutrality comes amid media reports suggesting that the United States has been investigating potential collaboration with Kurdish opposition groups located in Iran’s western border regions. Analysts have speculated that such insurgent activity could be supported to weaken the Iranian regime's internal control. However, the KRG’s current administration appears intent on distancing itself from any such operations, fearing that involvement could trigger direct Iranian retaliation against northern Iraqi cities and infrastructure.