Coordination Framework ‘condemns’ Kurdistan Region drone attacks, demands accountability over Kut fire

BAGHDAD — Iraq’s Shia Coordination Framework, a coalition of Shia parties which dominates the Iraqi government, called for decisive action against those behind recent drone attacks on oil infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region and pressed for full accountability in the aftermath of the deadly hypermarket fire in Kut.

In a statement following its 235th leadership-level meeting, held at the office of Badr Organization head Hadi Al-Amiri and attended by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, the coalition denounced the strikes as a threat to Iraq’s stability and economy.

“The Coordination Framework condemns the continued bombardment targeting oil companies in the Kurdistan Region, as it represents a direct threat to national wealth, public interests, and the investment environment, and a blatant assault on stability,” the statement read. The group called on the federal government to take “a firm position to identify those behind these attacks and prevent their recurrence.”

Several recent drone strikes have hit oil installations in Duhok and Erbil, prompting temporary shutdowns at sites operated by local and international firms, including U.S.-based Hunt Oil. KRG Deputy Chief of Staff Aziz Ahmed previously said the drones originated from Kirkuk’s Dibis district, an area known for its Popular Mobilization Forces presence. “We know exactly who’s behind these attacks and where they’re coming from,” Ahmed said.

The Coordination Framework also addressed last week’s fire in Kut, which killed at least 61 people, most due to smoke inhalation while trapped in bathrooms with no emergency exits.

“The Framework reiterates its regret and sorrow for the fire in Wasit governorate, which claimed the lives of many innocent people,” the statement said, calling for the swift completion of the investigation and legal action against anyone found responsible for safety failures. “Given the rise in fires in recent months in a manner that raises concern, accountability is essential,” it added.

The judiciary has issued arrest warrants under Articles 411/3 and 343/3 of the Penal Code for several local officials, including those in municipal and civil defense departments. The hypermarket’s owner and his business partner remain at large, while other suspects have been taken into custody.

The federal cabinet approved financial compensation for the families of the victims and proposed legislation aimed at enhancing building safety and emergency response oversight.