Former Central Intelligence Agency officer John Kiriakou, who previously spoke publicly about the agency’s use of waterboarding during counterterrorism interrogations, recently discussed the possibility of Kurdish military action involving Iran.
Speaking during an interview on Fox News, Kiriakou suggested there is a strong likelihood that Kurdish groups could attempt a ground operation in western Iran. His comments come amid rising regional tensions and reports of military activity connected to an operation described in some sources as Operation Epic Fury, which has been associated with strikes targeting Iranian military and nuclear-related infrastructure.
Kiriakou said his assessment is based on the long history of cooperation between Kurdish forces and the United States in parts of the Middle East. He suggested that Kurdish fighters might attempt to move into historically Kurdish areas in western Iran, sometimes referred to as Rojhilat, if regional conditions change.
According to Kiriakou, such a scenario could force Iranian military units to shift their positions within the country, potentially altering the strategic balance in the region. However, officials have not confirmed any such plan publicly.
The remarks come as tensions remain high between Iran and its regional rivals. Some analysts say outside powers may seek to weaken Iranian military capabilities through a mix of economic pressure, intelligence operations, and cooperation with regional partners.
Kiriakou also referenced discussions that he said were described by sources familiar with policy debates in Washington. According to his account, some conversations have reportedly focused on the possibility of supporting Kurdish groups through equipment or logistical coordination if conflict in the region intensifies. U.S. officials have not publicly confirmed those claims.
Kurdish forces have previously worked alongside U.S. and coalition troops in conflicts across the region, including operations against ISIS. Those partnerships, particularly with Kurdish fighters in Iraq and Syria, played a significant role in efforts to weaken the militant group’s territorial control during the past decade.
Supporters of such cooperation often argue that Kurdish forces have proven to be effective regional partners during military campaigns that rely heavily on air power combined with local ground forces. Critics, however, warn that expanded military coordination could increase tensions with Iran and potentially draw more countries into the conflict.
Iranian authorities have also raised concerns about Kurdish opposition movements operating near their borders. In recent months, Iranian officials have accused some Kurdish groups of supporting separatist activities and have conducted artillery strikes against positions they say are linked to militant factions in northern Iraq.
Kurdish political leaders in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, have periodically called for greater international support while also urging caution about actions that could trigger wider conflict.
Regional dynamics have become even more complex as Iran continues to face pressure from multiple fronts. Iranian-aligned groups such as Hezbollah and the Houthi movement have been involved in conflicts across the region, drawing the attention of several governments concerned about security and stability.
Observers say the situation is difficult to predict because developments often involve a combination of military operations, diplomatic pressure, and information campaigns from multiple sides. Reports of military movements or strategic planning frequently circulate during periods of heightened tension, though many claims remain unconfirmed.
Some international actors, including China, have warned that further escalation could increase instability in the region and have called for diplomatic solutions to reduce tensions.
As the situation evolves, analysts say the key question will be whether regional actors pursue direct military action or shift toward negotiations aimed at lowering the risk of broader conflict.