Iran Warns Iraq against Activities of KRG-Based Terrorists
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The Iranian foreign minister cautioned Iraq that Tehran would not tolerate the aggressive activities of the terrorist groups based in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region which threaten the national security of Iran.
“We will not tolerate the continuation of aggression and terrorist acts by groups that have taken refuge in the Kurdistan region of Iraq and targeted Iran's national security,” Hossein Amirabdollahian told his Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein in a telephone conversation on Thursday.
The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) has pounded terrorist bases in northern Iraq with drones and artillery fire in order to ensure Iran’s border security.
Amirabdollahian touched on provocative acts originating from the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, saying after four decades and despite repeated commitments of the regional authorities, they continue against Iran's territorial security.
“While respecting and adhering to the development of privileged relations between the two countries, as stressed by the high military officials of the Islamic Republic of Iran, we will not tolerate the continuation of aggression and terrorist acts by these groups that have taken refuge in the region and target Iran's national security,” he added, Press TV reported.
Iran’s military officials have said the operations will continue until all separatists and terrorist acts against the Islamic Republic are neutralized.
On Tuesday, the IRGC targeted their positions in Sidekan, north of the regional capital Erbil, with multiple rocket launchers, precision-strike weapons and drones.
In the telephone conversation, Amirabdollahian also appreciated the Iraqi government’s efforts in securing the release of an Iranian pilgrim held in Saudi Arabia.
Local media confirmed the arrival of Khalil Dardmand on Monday via “the airway of a Persian Gulf neighboring country.” He had been arrested some three months ago by Saudi Arabian authorities during the Hajj pilgrimage.