Revealed: What Donald Trump told Iraqi Kurdish leaders about Iran ground operation
Unveiled: Donald Trump’s Communications with Iraqi Kurdish Leaders
Sky News recently uncovered comprehensive details about the telephone exchanges between US President Donald Trump and Kurdish leaders in northern Iraq during the early stages of the conflict last weekend. These discussions have sparked debates, fueling speculation that the Kurds were pressured to initiate a military operation against Iran.
Clarifying the Role of Kurdish Leaders
According to a confidential source, a senior figure within the Iraqi Kurdistan political establishment, the conversations did not involve any directive from Trump to launch a ground assault into Iran. The individual, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasized that there is no ongoing covert CIA initiative to supply Kurdish groups with arms at this time.
“The call was a gesture of gratitude, not a command. He sought their counsel, not their action,” the source explained.
The source, who is intimately familiar with the details of the exchange, noted that Trump spoke directly with Bafel Talabani, the leader of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK). The dialogue, which lasted approximately 10 minutes, focused on appreciation for the Kurds’ sustained support of American forces in Iraq and Syria over years of collaboration.
Trump’s Brief Interactions with Kurdish Leaders
In addition to the call with Talabani, Trump had a short conversation with Masoud Barzani, head of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP). The source confirmed that these were the only two exchanges with Kurdish leaders, with Barzani’s call being particularly brief.
Contrary to earlier reports in American media, the source stated that no plan for a joint operation with CIA backing was discussed during these calls. “There was no mention of invasion, arms, or covert support,” they clarified.
Context and Kurdish Perspectives
Bafel Talabani, who was raised in Croydon, south London, as a refugee, is known for his diplomatic ties across Middle Eastern factions. His approach, as described by the source, prioritizes Kurdish interests and regional stability.
“His commitment is to safeguard Kurdistan and its people—nothing more, nothing less,” the source said.
Meanwhile, some Kurdish groups in exile have expressed openness to crossing the Iranian border to disrupt the regime. However, the source warned that such a move without clear American guarantees would be “suicide.” They noted that no definitive agreement or strategy has been finalized, though developments could shift this quickly as the conflict progresses.
Iranian Kurdish factions, eager for a foothold in Iran, are actively seeking US military backing, particularly aerial assistance. Yet, the source stressed that any formal action remains pending, underscoring the fluid nature of the situation as it unfolds daily.
