Iranian Kurds and the Potential for Conflict

Recent developments, including attacks against Iran and the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2026, have brought renewed attention to the role of Iranian Kurdish groups in the region. Amidst escalating tensions, the possibility of a ground operation in western Iran involving Kurdish forces, potentially with U.S. And Israeli support, is being discussed.

The Role of Iranian Kurds

Iran is a multiethnic society, comprised of Persians, Azeris, Kurds, Arabs, and other groups [1]. Iranian Kurdish armed groups, numbering in the thousands, operate primarily along the Iraq-Iran border within Iraq’s Kurdistan region. U.S. Officials view these groups as a potential ground force capable of stretching Iran’s security services [2].

U.S. Involvement and Potential Support

The CIA is reportedly working to arm Kurdish forces to encourage a popular uprising within Iran [2]. Discussions have taken place between the Trump administration, Iranian opposition groups, and Kurdish leaders in Iraq regarding military support [2]. President Trump has expressed support for such a scenario, calling it “wonderful” and stating he would “be all for it” [1]. On Tuesday, March 4, 2026, Trump spoke with Mustafa Hijri, the president of the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan [2].

Iranian Response and Regional Implications

In response to the potential threat, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has targeted Kurdish positions with drone strikes [2]. Several Kurdish groups have publicly hinted at imminent action and urged Iranian military personnel to defect. The involvement of Kurdish forces could potentially pressure Iranian defenses and further involve Iraq in the conflict [3].

Potential Risks and Concerns

Experts caution that fomenting ethnic strife within Iran could be a dangerous tactic, potentially leading to “a recipe for death and destruction” [1]. While Iran is a multiethnic society, stoking ethnic divisions could prove calamitous, as all ethnic groups play a role in the political equation [1].

As of March 8, 2026, Iranian Kurdish opposition forces expect to participate in a ground operation in western Iran in the coming days, anticipating support from the U.S. And Israel [2].