Italy Reaffirms Continued Military Support for Peshmerga in Fight Against Terrorism

By Ahora Qadi 

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – In a reaffirmation of its steadfast commitment to the Kurdistan Region, Italy has pledged to continue its support for the Peshmerga forces within the framework of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS.

This came during a meeting on Thursday, between Lt. Gen. Issa Ozeir, Chief of Staff at the Ministry of Peshmerga, and Gen. Giovanni Maria Lanucci, Commander of the Italian Joint Forces, accompanied by a senior military delegation at the ministry’s headquarters in Erbil.

Strengthening Bilateral Military Cooperation

The discussions focused on enhancing avenues of joint military cooperation between the Ministry of Peshmerga and the Italian Ministry of Defense, particularly in training programs, advisory support, and comprehensive military reform. Senior Peshmerga officers were also in attendance, underscoring the strategic weight of the meeting.

Lt. Gen. Ozeir lauded the Republic of Italy as a “reliable partner and longstanding friend,” noting its instrumental role in capacity-building for Kurdish forces. He expressed particular gratitude for Italy’s involvement in equipping and training the Peshmerga, and for its consistent presence in advisory missions aimed at modernizing and institutionalizing the Kurdish military framework.

Field Visit to Zerevani Training Center

Following the high-level talks, the delegation conducted a field visit to the Zerevani Peshmerga training center. There, Gen. Lanucci and his Kurdish counterparts observed active training drills led by Italian military advisors. The drills form part of Italy’s ongoing contribution to enhancing the readiness and tactical efficiency of Peshmerga units.

Gen. Lanucci praised the spirit of cooperation between both sides, reaffirming Rome’s commitment to maintaining and deepening its military partnership with the Kurdistan Region.

“Italy will continue its advisory and training missions in support of the Peshmerga forces, recognizing their critical role in ensuring the security and stability of Kurdistan and the broader region,” Gen. Lanucci stated during the visit.

A Pillar of the Global Coalition

Italy remains a pivotal member of the Global Coalition against ISIS and has been among the most proactive nations in supporting the Peshmerga since the coalition’s inception. From logistical support to institutional reform, Italian assistance has spanned multiple dimensions of military cooperation.

Thursday’s meeting and field engagements reflect not only the operational importance of this bilateral partnership but also the enduring mutual trust between Erbil and Rome.