Masoud Barzani

On Monday, 23 February 2026, President Masoud Barzani received Mr. Tom Barrack, United States Envoy for Syrian Affairs and United States Ambassador to Turkey.

The meeting was also attended by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. Mr. Barrack expressed his pleasure at meeting President Barzani and commended his role in preventing the escalation of war and violence, as well as his efforts to contain recent developments in Syria. He stated that President Barzani’s wisdom and guidance should be drawn upon in addressing Iraq’s challenges. Mr. Barrack further emphasized that the United States supports Iraq’s sovereignty and underscored the importance of strong relations and partnership with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

During the meeting, President Barzani referred to the history and struggle of the Kurdish people, including the crimes and genocides committed against them. He noted that the Kurdish people have consistently sought peace, coexistence, and the resolution of disputes through non-violent means. Concerning Iraq, he stressed that adherence to the Constitution and to the principles of partnership, compromise, and balance would enable the country to progress and develop. He further emphasized that the future Iraqi government must remain committed to implementing the Constitution and federal principles, particularly in addressing outstanding issues essential to the future of Iraq.

Regarding the position of President of Iraq, President Barzani stated that, as the post is allocated to the Kurdish people, an appropriate mechanism should be established to determine the presidential candidate in a manner that reflects the will of the Kurdish people. Concerning the position of Prime Minister of Iraq, he underlined the need to prioritize Iraq’s national interests and noted that the Coordination Framework would determine the candidate for Prime Minister, and that the next Prime Minister is committed to the Constutition and the principles of partnership, balance and compromise.

The meeting also addressed the political process in the Kurdistan Region and developments across the wider region.