Barzani, French ambassador discuss political developments and Syria tensions

ERBIL — Kurdistan Democratic Party President Masoud Barzani met Wednesday with French Ambassador to Iraq Patrick Durel in Pirmam, Erbil, where they discussed the political landscape in Iraq and Kurdistan Region, in addition to the regional tensions, according to a statement from Barzani media office.

French Consul General in Erbil Yann Braem also attended the meeting.

Ambassador Durel provided what was described as a briefing on the political situation in Iraq and the broader region, including recent developments in Syria. According to a statement, he commended Barzani’s role, saying the Kurdish leader contributed to “easing tensions and disturbances in Syria.”

Heavy fighting broke out this week in Aleppo’s predominantly Kurdish neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyeh, with residents and Kurdish-led forces coming under assault as Syrian government forces and allied fighters advanced. The violence displaced civilians and ended with an evacuation and withdrawal deal that saw Kurdish fighters and families leave the area.

Since the assault, Kurdish leaders including Barzani have spoken out against the violence and called for de‑escalation. Barzani also held a phone call with Syrian interim President Ahmed al‑Sharaa to discuss developments in Aleppo and the wider Syrian situation.