Sudani orders probe into Kurdistan Region drone strikes, calls attacks a ‘direct threat’ to national interest

BAGHDAD — Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani on Tuesday ordered an “immediate and comprehensive investigation” into drone strikes that targeted two oil fields in the Kurdistan Region, calling the attacks a “direct threat to the interests of the Iraqi people” and “an assault on the State’s efforts to establish stability and advance development.”

In a statement from Al-Sudani’s media office, the prime minister condemned the attacks and said they were designed to destabilize the country. “The nature and timing of these criminal acts indicate malicious intent aimed at creating confusion and harming Iraq and its vital institutions,” the statement read.

“We reaffirm that the Iraqi government, through all its institutions and agencies, will not allow any threat to undermine the interests of the Iraqi people,” it added.

The remarks came after back-to-back drone strikes targeted the Khurmala oil field near Erbil late Monday and the Sarsang oil field in Duhok early Tuesday. The Khurmala attack damaged water pipelines but caused no casualties. The Sarsang strike triggered a fire and forced the suspension of operations, according to HKN Energy, the field’s operator.

Iraq’s presidency also issued a statement Tuesday condemning the incidents, describing them as a serious threat to national security and economic infrastructure.

The U.S. Consulate General in Erbil likewise denounced the attacks, calling them “unacceptable” and urging the federal government to investigate and hold those responsible accountable.

Statement from Al-Sudani’s media office:

Two oil fields in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq were targeted by drone attacks, posing a direct threat to the interests of the Iraqi people and constituting an assault on the State’s efforts to establish stability and advance development.

The nature and timing of these criminal acts indicate malicious intent aimed at creating confusion and harming Iraq and its vital institutions.

The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mr. Mohammed S. Al-Sudani, has directed the relevant authorities to launch an immediate and comprehensive investigation to identify the perpetrators of these attacks and take firm action to hold them accountable, without hesitation or leniency.

We reaffirm that the Iraqi government, through all its institutions and agencies, will not allow any threat to undermine the interests of the Iraqi people. It will take all necessary measures to protect vital infrastructure and strengthen the defense system to prevent the recurrence of such acts, safeguard Iraq’s sovereignty, and uphold the rights of its people.

Sabah Al-Numan
Official Spokesperson for the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces