Iraq Vows to Apprehend Perpetrators Behind Drone Attacks in Kurdistan Region

National Security Advisor Media

Qasim al-Araji arriving in Erbil.

National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji announced on Monday, 28 July 2025, that the individuals responsible for recent attacks on oil fields in the Kurdistan Region are close to being apprehended, warning that such acts constitute a serious threat to Iraq’s economy and national interests.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Erbil alongside Kurdistan Region Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed, al-Araji said: “Under the direction of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani -also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces-, the joint investigation committee convened in Erbil to address the attacks targeting oil fields in the Kurdistan Region. The Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces is resolute in tracking down those responsible through the designated investigative body.”

He described the incidents as acts of sabotage, calling them “a direct assault on the national economy” that tarnish Iraq’s reputation locally, regionally, and internationally.

“We will identify the true perpetrators and bring them to justice,” he pledged.

Araji condemned the attacks “in the strongest terms,” emphasising the need for unity across Iraq’s regions to protect the nation’s sovereignty and security.

“Iraq’s security is indivisible—we must work together to safeguard it,” he said.

He also extended his gratitude to the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) for its cooperation, stating: “The strength of the Kurdistan Region is the strength of Baghdad and of federal Iraq. Any targeting of Iraq’s economic assets is a direct attack on the nation and harms both the Iraqi people and government interests.”

Araji confirmed that the discussions in Erbil involved intelligence shared by both regional and federal authorities. He revealed that joint technical committees would be formed to uncover the facts and ensure accountability.

“Our primary objective is to secure stability across the country and bring those responsible to account,” he affirmed.

The National Security Advisor arrived in Erbil on Monday leading a high-level security delegation, under the direction of Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani, who also serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.

In recent months, a series of attacks have targeted oil infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region, disrupting energy operations and raising alarm among both regional and federal authorities. 

Earlier on Monday, a drone crashed in the Khabat District of Erbil. Security forces confirmed that the drone went down in the Rizgari sub-district, causing material damage but no reported casualties.

The Kurdistan Region’s oil sector represents a significant share of Iraq’s total production and revenue, making any disruption particularly damaging to the national economy. The recent attacks, believed to be orchestrated by unidentified armed groups, have heightened concerns about security vulnerabilities around strategic energy assets.

In response, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani ordered the formation of a joint investigation committee comprising representatives from federal and regional security and intelligence agencies. The visit of National Security Advisor Qasim al-Araji to Erbil marks a coordinated federal-regional effort to strengthen security cooperation and ensure accountability.



PUKMEDIA