Thousands of Kurdish fighters have reportedly launched a ground invasion into Iran from positions across the border in Iraq, according to a US official.
The offensive began on Wednesday in northwestern Iran, involving Kurdish militias considered among the most organised factions within the fragmented Iranian opposition. These groups are believed to have thousands of battle-hardened fighters capable of posing a significant challenge to the besieged authorities in Tehran.
President Donald Trump reportedly spoke on Sunday night with the leadership of Kurdish militant groups in Iraq to discuss the evolving situation in Iran. The CIA has reportedly been exploring options to arm the Kurdish forces with the aim of encouraging a wider popular uprising, according to reports from CNN.
The involvement of the Kurdish militias introduces a new dynamic in the conflict, raising the possibility of stretching Iranian defensive resources and potentially drawing Iraq further into the hostilities.
When asked about Kurdish participation, Pete Hegseth stated, “None of our objectives are premised on the support or the arming of any particular force. So, what other entities may be doing, we’re aware of, but our objectives aren’t centered on that.”
