Iraq and Iran stress border security as reports emerge on arming Kurdish opposition groups

BAGHDAD — National Security Adviser Qasim al-Araji and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stressed the need to prevent infiltration along the Iraq-Iran border during a phone call Wednesday, as reports emerged that U.S. officials are exploring the possibility of arming Iranian Kurdish opposition groups.

Both sides emphasized “the importance of strengthening coordination and cooperation to control the common borders and prevent any attempts of infiltration, in a way that contributes to consolidating security and stability between the two countries,” according to Araji’s media office. He also reiterated Iraq’s position calling for “addressing crises through dialogue and diplomatic means, and rejecting the escalation of military actions or the expansion of the conflict.”

The call comes as Iranian Kurdish opposition bases in Koya district have been repeatedly struck in recent days. On Tuesday, three drones and a missile hit Camp Azadi and a weapons storage facility belonging to the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan. The PDKI described the strike as “a serious humanitarian and legal breach,” saying the targeting of a hospital “constitutes a violation of international humanitarian law.”

Reuters reported that U.S. officials have held talks with Iranian Kurdish leaders, while CNN reported the CIA is examining a plan that could involve arming those groups. Both outlets said the proposals remain under discussion and no final decisions have been announced.