Clashes have erupted in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, primarily in the Khabat district of Erbil province, between forces loyal to the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and members of the Harki tribe. The confrontations began after Peshmerga forces reportedly attempted to arrest Khurshid Harki, the head of the Harki clan. The conflict has escalated rapidly, with tribal fighters aligned with Khurshid Harki launching ambushes against Peshmerga units. Reports indicate that additional Harki tribal members are organizing against the Peshmerga. Jawhar Agha Harki, another leader of the Harki clan, has called for a national uprising against the Barzani-led Peshmerga government. Geolocation data places the clashes near the Khabat thermal plant in Erbil. There have been reports of damage to infrastructure and the destruction of two Humvees. One member of the Harki tribe and one KDP security forces member have reportedly been killed. Khurshid Harki has publicly stated he will not surrender to Peshmerga forces. Divisions are emerging within the Harki tribe, with some urging Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani to intervene, while others advocate for an uprising against the Barzani family. Meanwhile, Iraq's government has reportedly deployed military reinforcements to the Kurdish-controlled border region.
