Analysts warn that Iran threatens Kurdistan with missile strikes.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran’s threats on Sunday. He said, “Our missiles cannot hit American soil. We must target regional bases.”
Tehran previously attacked U.S. troops at Al-Udeid airbase in Qatar after the U.S. struck its nuclear facilities during the Israel-Iran 12-day conflict. Experts warn that future strikes may come without warning.
Mohammed A. Salih, senior fellow at the Foreign Policy Research Institute, said Iran threatens Kurdistan again if war breaks out. “They have targeted this region repeatedly in past years,” he noted.
Iran has launched ballistic missiles offensively in Iraqi Kurdistan since 2018. That year, it struck Kurdish opposition groups in Koya in Erbil province. In 2022 and 2024, Tehran targeted the residences of prominent regional businessmen.
During the 2022 Women, Life, Freedom protests, Iran used missiles and drones against multiple Kurdish opposition sites simultaneously. Analysts warn similar tactics could appear in future conflicts.
Salih explained that Iraq’s weak military and limited air defenses make Kurdistan a more accessible target than U.S. bases in the Gulf. He added that strikes also serve propaganda purposes for Tehran.
Iran-backed Shia militias have attacked U.S. troops at Erbil International Airport using rockets and drones since 2020. Experts predict future attacks may target U.S. facilities, consulates, hotels, dams, roads, and opposition bases.
Last November, a militia drone hit the Khor Mor gas field, causing a massive fire and cutting electricity for several days. Officials warn the region remains vulnerable without proper defense systems.
Sagnic, a security analyst, said Tehran would need larger operations than small strikes to impress Gulf states and domestic audiences. Minor attacks would not achieve their goals.
The U.S. deployed a Patriot missile system at Erbil International Airport, which intercepted an Iranian missile in April 2024. Its current coverage remains uncertain for broader defense.
Salih emphasized that U.S. support is vital to protect the majority of Kurdistan’s territory. He said Kurds have consistently supported Washington and deserve protection from Iranian attacks.
Providing air defense would shield Kurdistan and its infrastructure because Iran threatens Kurdistan, putting civilians and U.S. interests at risk. Analysts warn that without it, Iran and its militias may exploit the region freely.
