Nechirvan Barzani congratulates Mojtaba Khamenei, seeks continued ties

ERBIL — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani congratulated Mojtaba Khamenei on his election as Iran’s supreme leader Tuesday, expressing hope for continued relations between the Kurdistan Region and Iran.

“We extend our warmest congratulations to you and the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran on your election as Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Barzani said, wishing Khamenei success in his new responsibilities.

“The Kurdistan Region consistently seeks to foster historical and friendly relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran, aiming for the mutual benefit of both nations and promoting peaceful coexistence throughout the entire region,” he added.

Mojtaba Khamenei was named supreme leader by Iran’s Assembly of Experts on March 8, following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in the U.S.-Israeli strikes that launched the regional war on Feb. 28.

Barzani joins a broad range of Iraqi leaders and factions who have sent congratulations. Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid expressed hope Tuesday that “the coming phase will witness an end to the war and the prioritization of wisdom and dialogue.” Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani congratulated him on Monday, expressing confidence in Iran’s leadership to “manage this critical stage.”

PUK President Bafel Talabani said he hoped the appointment would bring “de-escalation, stability and a lasting peace to the region.” Kataib Hezbollah, Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Asaib Ahl al-Haq, the Hikma Movement and the State of Law Coalition also issued congratulatory messages.