Erbil, Iraq – Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani condemned on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, the “unjustified” airstrikes carried out by Iranian drones targeting various areas in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. He asserted that these attacks, which targeted innocent civilians, reflect “the utmost degree of criminality and injustice.”
Martyrdom of innocent citizens
Targeting civilians in Zarkazwi and Raparin: Barzani explained in an official statement that the Iranian shelling that occurred Monday night into Tuesday resulted in the martyrdom of innocent civilians in the village of Zarkazwi, Erbil Governorate. He described the attack as stemming from “blind hatred” against the people of Kurdistan.
Barzani stressed that “targeting civilians is neither honorable nor a source of pride.” He offered his condolences to the families of the victims and affirmed that the will of the Kurdish people will not be broken by these repeated attacks.
Horrifying details of the attacks
On the ground, the Peshmerga Ministry revealed horrific details of the attacks; three drones launched from Iranian territory targeted the home of a Peshmerga member in Erbil, killing him and his wife instantly.
On the ground, the Peshmerga Ministry revealed horrific details of the attacks; three drones launched from Iranian territory targeted the home of a Peshmerga member in Erbil, killing him and his wife instantly.
Cross-border escalation
These developments come amid a broader regional escalation, with Iranian forces continuing to launch retaliatory strikes against targets in Iraqi Kurdistan and neighboring countries. This coincides with increasing US military pressure on Tehran.
Observers believe that targeting the home of a Peshmerga member and destroying civilian infrastructure in Erbil villages represents a dangerous escalation. It even goes beyond traditional military norms.
Stop Iran’s repeated violations
Barzani concluded his statement by affirming that “the people of Kurdistan rely on God and are confident in the justice of their cause.” He indicated that the use of explosive-laden drones by adversaries against villages and civilians will not deter the region from preserving its sovereignty and stability.
Public anger is widespread in Erbil and Sulaimaniyah following this massacre. At the same time, there are calls for the federal government in Baghdad and the international community to intervene immediately to stop Iran’s repeated violations of Iraqi sovereignty and the security of Kurdish civilians.
