Nechirvan Barzani, Iranian FM discuss regional developments in phone call

ERBIL — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani held a phone call Friday with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, according to a statement from the Kurdistan Region presidency, “both sides exchanged views on recent developments in the region” and “highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and stability.”

The call also addressed “Iran’s relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region,” along with other issues of mutual interest, the statement said.

Previous statements from the Kurdistan Region officials have reiterated that the region “has not be part of this conflict, and will not be part of it,” emphasizing neutrality amid ongoing tensions.

Drone and missile strikes on the Kurdistan Region have continued despite the U.S.-Iran ceasefire, with 695 attacks recorded between Feb. 28 and April 24, according to a report by Community Peacemaker Teams-Iraqi Kurdistan. The attacks caused 123 casualties, including 22 deaths and 101 injuries. At least 24 of those affected were civilians, the report said, with more than 67 homes and 45 civilian vehicles damaged.