The investigation into the attack on February 15 on the Erbil air base welcoming American forces has progressed well, assures Masrour Barzani in an interview with France 24. The Prime Minister of Iraqi Kurdistan, however, refuses to give details. additional pending investigation findings.

Asked by Marc Perelman, Masrour Barzani reiterates the constant threat posed by the Islamic State organization in the region.

The jihadist group "is reorganizing itself at this very moment", he assures us.

According to him, the jihadists are taking advantage of a security vacuum in the disputed area between the Kurdistan region and the central government in Baghdad.

"They managed to recruit more and carried out operations against Iraqi security forces, and even in some cases against civilians," he said.

The Islamic State group "therefore remains a major problem".

The Prime Minister of Iraqi Kurdistan believes that the international community must therefore closely monitor the situation.

During the interview, Masrour Barzani also mentions the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) - a Turkish party considered terrorist by Ankara - claiming that it is responsible for a major Turkish military incursion into the region.

Asked about the possible establishment of a Turkish "security zone" in his region - like those that Turkey has created in neighboring Syria - he says he prefers to ensure that a peaceful solution is found. once and for all.

Finally, Masrour Barzani qualifies as "historic" the visit of Pope Francis to the region next week, considering that it is a tribute not only to the Christians of the region but also to the peaceful coexistence in Iraqi Kurdistan.

He hopes that this visit will generate increased international support for refugees and those who have been displaced in the region.

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