Erbil, Kurdistan Region — For the first time, the Kurdistan Region has launched an advanced military medical paramedic education program aimed at enhancing the medical and emergency response capabilities of the Peshmerga Forces.

The program, supervised by the Department of Peshmerga in collaboration with U.S. Forces, will train 90 Peshmerga soldiers as certified paramedics. Five participants from Iraq's Ministry of Defense have also joined the course, reflecting growing cooperation between Kurdish and Iraqi military institutions.

This intensive one-year course consists of 1,800 hours of rigorous study and hands-on training. Participants will acquire vital skills in medical treatment, emergency response, and battlefield first aid, enabling them to provide immediate medical support to combat units.

According to officials, the initiative is a major step toward modernizing the Peshmerga’s medical response capabilities. The presence of U.S. advisors highlights the importance of international support in strengthening the region's defense sector.

"This program is crucial for our Peshmerga forces," a senior Peshmerga official stated. "It will ensure that our soldiers receive life-saving medical care during combat, which can make the difference between life and death on the battlefield."

By training a specialized unit of military paramedics, the Kurdistan Region is taking proactive measures to improve the self-sufficiency of its military forces. The initiative aligns with broader efforts to professionalize the Peshmerga and reduce reliance on foreign support for emergency medical care in combat situations.

This milestone in military health education underscores the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to modernize its defense forces and safeguard the well-being of its soldiers on the front lines.