KRG spokesperson rebukes Halbousi for remarks on Peshmerga weapons

ERBIL — Kurdistan Regional Government spokesperson Peshawa Hawramani issued a sharp response to remarks made by dismissed Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohammed Al-Halbousi about the arming of the Peshmerga, accusing him of disrespecting the Kurdistan Region. In an Arabic statement, Hawramani remarked, “Loyalty is very expensive, so don’t expect it from someone cheap,” without elaborating further.

Al-Halbousi sparked controversy on Sept. 15 when he publicly opposed providing heavy weaponry to local forces like the Peshmerga, arguing their constitutional duty is limited to internal security. “We categorically reject the arming of local forces with advanced heavy artillery,” he said, warning that such weapons could “undermine national social security, particularly in Nineveh and Kirkuk.” He raised concerns that the weapons could exacerbate “ethnic or partisan conflicts.” He stressed that such arms should be held only by the Iraqi army, whose capabilities must be strengthened to ensure national security.

The comments followed an Aug. 6 delivery of heavy weapons, including artillery, to the Peshmerga from the United States and coalition forces. Kurdish officials welcomed the move, with Peshmerga Minister Shoresh Ismail calling it a “historic day” and thanking Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani for facilitating the transfer.

Al-Halbousi’s remarks have been met with fierce criticism from Kurdish leaders. Ali Hussein, a senior Kurdistan Democratic Party official, accused Al-Halbousi of using the Kurdish issue as a political tool. “He has numerous political disputes with the Shiites, and several other Iraqi factions are using Kurdistan as a political bargaining tool for their own ends,” Hussein said.

In an interview with Al Sharqiya TV on Sept. 20, Al-Halbousi reiterated his concerns, questioning the necessity of such arms. “What weapons does the Peshmerga need, and against whom would they be used?” he asked. While he supported providing the Peshmerga with defensive systems, like anti-drone technology, he expressed concerns about granting them access to heavy artillery. “If they are given such heavy weaponry, we would have issues in disputed areas,” he said, emphasizing potential conflicts in regions like Kirkuk and Nineveh.

Despite acknowledging the contributions of the Kurdish people, Al-Halbousi warned that introducing heavy weaponry in disputed regions could destabilize the area. “We respect and honor the sacrifices of our Kurdish brothers and their leadership, but in areas like Nineveh and Kirkuk, we have ongoing issues. Discussions must take place about the future of these regions if such heavy weaponry is provided. It would shift the balance from defense to militarization, and we completely reject that,” he said.