Key facts
- The Trump administration plans to end security assistance to Iraq's Peshmerga forces.
- The current agreement expires on September 30, coinciding with the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq.
- Kurdish officials express concern that ending aid will create a power vacuum and embolden Iran.
- Iran has significantly increased missile and drone attacks into Iraqi Kurdistan.
- The US is considering alternative security support mechanisms for Iraq and Iraqi Kurdistan.
The Trump administration is reportedly planning to cease military aid to Iraq's Peshmerga security forces as a security assistance agreement expires on September 30. This decision, communicated by the US Department of Defense to Kurdish leaders, comes amid escalating attacks from Iran into Iraqi Kurdistan and concerns that the move could create a power vacuum, potentially emboldening Tehran.
Sources familiar with the matter told the BBC that the administration does not intend to renew the memorandum of understanding with the Kurdish Regional Government, which has been a key partner in the fight against the Islamic State group. This potential cut-off of funding, which amounted to $61 million in fiscal year 2026, has raised alarms among Kurdish officials and analysts, who warn it could undermine a long-standing ally and signal untrustworthiness to regional partners.
Kurdish officials fear that without US support, they will be more vulnerable to Iranian aggression. Iran and its backed militias have conducted a significant number of missile and drone attacks into Iraqi Kurdistan. Despite these attacks, defense officials have indicated the US will not extend the current agreement, though a final decision is still under review and the US is considering alternative security support mechanisms.
The expiration of aid coincides with the planned withdrawal of remaining US troops from Iraq, formally ending the international military campaign against IS. Analysts suggest this withdrawal, coupled with the cessation of aid, could leave the Peshmerga exposed, potentially repeating past mistakes that led to the rise of IS. Some experts, like former US ambassador James Jeffrey, argue that continued support for the Peshmerga is a worthwhile investment, citing the group's crucial role in combating extremism.