Trump Administration Backs Kurdish Forces in Potential Iranian Uprising

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) is actively supporting Kurdish forces in Iraq with the goal of instigating an uprising within Iran, according to multiple sources familiar with the plan. This move comes as President Donald Trump has engaged in direct communication with Kurdish leaders and publicly called for action against the Iranian regime.

CIA Support and Kurdish Preparations

The CIA’s support for Iranian Kurdish groups began several months prior to the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, with discussions also underway with Iranian opposition groups. Iranian Kurdish armed groups, numbering in the thousands, are stationed along the Iraq-Iran border within Iraq’s Kurdistan region. Several of these groups have issued statements hinting at imminent action and encouraging defections from the Iranian military.

President Trump recently spoke with Mustafa Hijri, the president of the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (KDPI), a group that has been targeted by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Iranian Kurdish opposition forces are preparing for a ground operation in Western Iran in the coming days, anticipating support from the U.S. And Israel. One source stated, “We believe we have a big chance now,” indicating a belief that current conditions are favorable for an uprising.

Trump’s Public Statements and Demands

President Trump has publicly demanded Iran’s “unconditional surrender” and has directly urged Kurdish forces to participate in efforts against Iran. He has offered “extensive U.S. Aircover” and other support to aid in these operations. However, in a recent statement, President Trump also indicated a degree of caution, stating, “We’re not looking to the Kurds going in,” suggesting a potential ambiguity in the extent of U.S. Involvement.

Iranian Response and Regional Impact

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has responded to the growing Kurdish activity by striking Kurdish groups with dozens of drones and targeting KDPI specifically. The IRGC has been actively attempting to suppress any potential uprising. The situation is further complicated by reports of damage to thousands of buildings in Iran since the start of the conflict, as reported by the Iranian Red Crescent.

Ongoing Developments

As of March 6, 2026, the situation remains fluid. The potential for a ground offensive by Kurdish forces in Western Iran is imminent, and the extent of U.S. And Israeli support remains a key factor. The Emirates have resumed flights to Schiphol from Dubai, signaling a potential shift in regional dynamics. Reports also suggest alleged destruction of “Khamenei’s bunker,” though independent verification is lacking.

Sources: CNN, Reuters, Washington Post, YouTube