Arab States Maintain Strong Relations with Kurdistan

Arab States Maintain Strong Relations with Kurdistan

“Interview from Halabja by Aziz Hawrami”

Kurdistan enjoys strong diplomatic, political and economic relations with several Arab states. Arab leaders and officials continue to express their support for the region. In an interview with Wsha, Sherko Habeb, an expert on Kurdistan’s relations with Arab countries, examined this issue and highlighted the capacity of Arab states to support Kurdistan on multiple levels.

Do you believe that Arab states will support Kurdistan in this hostage situation?

Certainly. If we look at Kurdistan’s political and economic relations with a number of Arab countries, it is clear that there is consistent support. Countries such as Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Palestine have demonstrated strong backing for Kurdistan – often at a higher level than other states and peoples in the region.

Egypt, for example, has affirmed its commitment to protecting the territorial integrity of Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region. It has also emphasised the importance of reducing regional tensions and maintaining stability in order to safeguard the security of both the country and the wider region.

What can Arab states do for Kurdistan?

Arab states can assist Kurdistan in several ways. Politically, they can offer support in international forums and decision-making bodies. Economically, they can strengthen cooperation through increased investment and trade, helping to boost the region’s development and stability.

What is the current level of relations between Kurdistan and Arab states?

Relations with countries such as Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia are excellent. This is largely due to the strategic vision of President Masoud Barzani and the continued diplomatic efforts of the Kurdistan Regional Government.

Visits and engagements led by President Nechirvan Barzani and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani have played a significant role in strengthening these ties. These efforts aim not only to deepen relations but also to benefit from the governance experiences of these countries.

Why are terrorist groups targeting Kurdistan?

Kurdistan is widely regarded as a peaceful and stable region, where coexistence, fraternity, and freedom are firmly established. This reality has unsettled groups that oppose such values, prompting them to intensify efforts to destabilise the region.

Despite this, their attempts have consistently failed. More recently, there have been efforts to draw Kurdistan into ongoing regional conflicts. However, the leadership’s experience and strategic approach have enabled the region to maintain its neutrality while continuing to promote peace and stability.

At the same time, some actors continue to hold chauvinistic attitudes towards the Kurdish people, refusing to accept them as equal and essential partners within the country.

What should Kurdistan do moving forward?

Kurdistan should continue to strengthen its diplomatic efforts and maintain this strategic approach. Deepening economic relations will provide a solid foundation for long-term political partnerships.

In addition, it should enhance engagement at the party level, particularly with ruling parties in Arab countries and with those that have demonstrated clear and positive support for the Kurdish people.