The Syrian Kurds of the northeast region have warned Iranian Kurds not to align with the United States amidst regional tensions. They said that their own experiences tell how alliances can end badly.
The warning comes as tensions rise across the Middle East. Iranian Kurdish militias based in northern Iraq have recently held talks with the United States. The talks focused on whether they could attack Iranian security forces in western Iran.
These discussions come as the United States and Israel continue air strikes on Iran.
Syrian Kurds recall difficult experience with the US
Many Syrian Kurdish fighters worked with the United States for more than a decade. They joined forces to fight the Islamic State group in Syria.
At that time, Kurdish forces gained control of several areas from the militants. They also formed a semi-autonomous region in northern Syria.
However, many Kurdish residents now say the partnership did not bring long-term protection.
“I hope that the Kurds of Iran will not ally themselves with America, because they will abandon them,” said Saad Ali, a 45-year-old resident of the Kurdish town of Qamishli.
“Tomorrow, if an agreement is made between them and the Iranians, they will eliminate you. Do not make our mistakes,” he told Reuters.
Later, Syria’s new army under President Ahmed al-Sharaa launched a major offensive. Government forces captured most of the Kurdish-held areas earlier this year.
Calls for caution from Kurdish leaders
Kurdish leaders asked Washington to step in during the fighting. However, the United States urged Kurdish forces to merge with the new Syrian army instead.
This decision created deep mistrust among many Kurdish communities.
Amjad Kardo, a 26-year-old resident of Qamishli, said Iranian Kurds should be careful. He believes they should demand strong guarantees before joining any military campaign.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump earlier said it would be “wonderful” if Kurdish fighters crossed into Iran. Later, he appeared to change his position.
Ahmed Barakat, head of the Kurdish Progressive Democratic Party in Syria, also urged Iranian Kurds to act carefully and avoid becoming the frontline force in a wider conflict with Iran
