On Wednesday, 11 September 2024, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), Masrour Barzani, received a high-level British military delegation headed by Vice Admiral Edward Ahlgren, the United Kingdom’s Defence Senior Adviser to the Middle East and North Africa, accompanied by Andrew Bizley, the UK Consul General in the Kurdistan Region.

The meeting focused on recent developments in Iraq and the broader region, with discussions aimed at enhancing coordination on key security challenges. Both sides highlighted the importance of continued military cooperation, particularly in countering the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups, including the so-called Islamic State (ISIS).

Another key point of the talks was the reform process within the Ministry of Peshmerga which is crucial for enhancing the effectiveness of the KRG’s security apparatus, and has received considerable backing from the UK.

The Peshmerga forces play a vital role in maintaining security in the region, particularly in combating ISIS insurgency activities in the region. Prime Minister Barzani and Vice Admiral Ahlgren emphasised the need for sustained international support for the Peshmerga forces in combating terrorism.

Both sides also discussed the future of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, the international military mission focused on eliminating ISIS in Iraq and Syria. The KRG leadership and British officials agreed on the necessity of continuing coalition support for the Peshmerga to ensure lasting stability and security across the region.