Reber Ahmed: Current Joint Forces Are Insufficient to Fill Security Vacuums and Counter ISIS Movements in Disputed Territories
The Minister of Interior of the Kurdistan Region, Reber Ahmed, has called for strengthening the joint military deployment between Peshmerga forces and federal forces through the formation of a third military brigade. He warned that the currently deployed forces are no longer sufficient to cover the disputed territories and counter ISIS movements within them.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, Ahmed stated that the Kurdistan Region has been subjected to drone and missile attacks for a long time under various pretexts, stressing that despite this, the Region will remain a safe haven for anyone seeking safety.
The Interior Minister emphasized that “the Region’s position remains firm regarding not getting involved in regional conflicts, and we hope all parties respect this stance.”
Regarding security challenges in the disputed territories, Ahmed clarified that ISIS continues to operate in certain areas suffering from a security vacuum between federal forces and Peshmerga forces. He pointed out the necessity of addressing this threat with high seriousness, especially as armed groups exploit these vacuums.
He noted that efforts to form joint forces have resulted in the establishment of two military brigades. However, these forces are no longer adequate, necessitating an increase in their numbers and the creation of a new brigade to ensure full coverage of those areas.
Furthermore, Ahmed called for expanding security coordination between the Kurdistan Region and the federal government, enhancing intelligence sharing between their respective security agencies, and raising the level of readiness and vigilance to face potential risks, particularly in light of the withdrawal of International Coalition forces from Iraq.
Note: This text is translated from the original Arabic version. Read the Arabic version:Click here
