According to a report by Times Of Israel on Thursday, March 12, 2026, Kurdish rebel fighters based near Erbil in Iraq’s Kurdistan region have pledged to continue resisting the Iranian government and say they plan to return to Iran to fight its leadership when conditions permit.
Leaders of Iranian Kurdish armed groups, including the Kurdistan Free Life Party (PJAK) and other opposition factions operating from bases near the Iraqi‑Iranian border, made the commitment as tensions escalate following regional hostilities. These groups have long sought greater autonomy for Kurds inside Iran and have maintained positions in Iraq’s northern autonomous region for years.
Senior commanders told Agence France‑Presse that they remain ready to fight the Islamic Republic, but they said a broader popular uprising inside Iran would be necessary before launching a full‑scale offensive. “If there is an attack on the Kurdish people, then with every means we are ready to resist as we always have,” one PJAK commander said, emphasizing their preparedness to act if their community is targeted.
He added that Kurdish fighters believe they can pursue their goals without direct foreign military support should an opportunity arise. Many fighters also expressed the view that internal popular momentum and coordinated action could play a decisive role in challenging Tehran’s authority.
Iran has designated these Kurdish groups as terrorist organisations and has carried out drone and missile strikes on Kurdish positions in Iraqi Kurdistan, accusing them of serving external interests.
Despite these pressures, Kurdish fighters maintain their readiness. They say they have continued to train and prepare for potential action while closely monitoring the broader conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran.