Kurdistan Region Merges Rival Peshmerga Brigades Under Single Ministry
The Kurdistan region has consolidated its Peshmerga forces under the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs, ending the long-standing split between units loyal to the KDP and the PUK.
In Erbil, Kurdish leaders officially merged the Peshmerga units previously aligned with the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan into a unified force under the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs. President Nechirvan Barzani, who also serves as commander-in-chief, and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani described the decision as a historic achievement that will create a national, professional army free from party interference.
The integration satisfies a long-standing U.S. demand that the Kurdish forces operate under a single command to improve effectiveness against ISIS and ensure accountability. U.S. and coalition advisers were present, and both Barzanis thanked partner countries for their patience and support. The move also coincides with Baghdad’s push to bring Iran-backed militias under state control, highlighting a broader effort to centralise Iraq’s security apparatus.
Why it matters
A unified Peshmerga strengthens Kurdish security and meets U.S. conditions for continued military assistance.
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