In a strategic plea today, Babakir Zebari, the former Chief of Staff of the Iraqi Army and current Military Affairs Advisor to the President of the Kurdistan Region, has stressed the imperative need for accelerated deployment of missile defense systems in the Kurdistan Region. This urgent call comes amidst heightened regional tensions, with Zebari cautioning against the risk of escalating conflict between militias and U.S. forces within Iraq.

In an exclusive statement to BasNews, Zebari expressed, "A war is underway between Iran-backed militias and the United States and Israel. Iraq is becoming entangled in this conflict, and the situation could swiftly spiral out of control due to the ongoing hostilities between these militias and U.S. forces on Iraqi soil." He further underscored the complexity of the situation, citing U.S. strikes on militia positions in Syria and the recent killing of Radee Musawi, a prominent Iranian military advisor in Syria known as 'Little Qasem Soleimani.'

Drawing attention to the evolving dynamics in the region, Zebari emphasized, "The United States is likely to alter its military strategy and transition from a defensive to an offensive stance. Given the missile attacks targeting the Kurdistan Region, it is of utmost importance to expedite the procurement of missile defense systems or any viable air defense mechanisms. We currently face a shortage of these critical systems, and the need is pressing. Approval for the supply of these systems has passed through two councils and is presently awaiting the signature of the U.S. President."

Zebari affirmed that the decision to equip Iraq and the Kurdistan Region with advanced air defense capabilities lies with the United States. Anticipating prompt action, he expects the U.S. President to endorse the approval soon. As tensions continue to escalate in the region, the urgent call for bolstered defense measures becomes paramount to safeguard the Kurdistan Region against potential missile threats. The deployment of advanced defense systems remains a critical factor in ensuring the stability and security of the region in these challenging times.