ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani and Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani on Thursday strongly condemned a drone attack targeting an Italian military base in the Kurdistan Region, stressing the need to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of diplomatic missions and coalition forces.
Barzani and Tajani discussed the incident and broader regional developments during a phone call, according to statements from both sides.
“We expressed the strongest condemnation of the drone attack on the Italian base in Erbil and agreed to remain in contact to clarify the circumstances of the incident,” Tajani wrote on X following the call.
The Italian deputy prime minister reaffirmed Rome’s solidarity with the Kurdistan Region amid what he described as “unacceptable attacks in Kurdistan and other areas of Iraq.”
“I reaffirmed Italy’s solidarity in the face of the unacceptable attacks in Kurdistan and other areas of Iraq,” Tajani said, adding that ensuring the safety of Italian soldiers and citizens remains an “absolute priority.”
Kurdistan Region has come under drone and missile attacks numerous times since the start of Iran’s war with the US-Israel coalition on February 28.
Tajani also thanked Barzani for assistance provided to Italy’s consulate in Erbil, including facilitating the return of part of its personnel.
Barzani likewise strongly condemned the attack on the Italian military base during the call, according to a statement from the Kurdistan Region Presidency.
The Kurdish leader stressed the necessity for Baghdad to fulfill its responsibility to protect diplomatic missions and coalition forces in Iraq.
He also warned that “rogue groups must not be permitted to jeopardize the country’s security and interests.”
The two officials also discussed the broader implications of the ongoing regional conflict for international security and stability.