Reported US-Israeli Plan for Kurdish Incursion into Iran Shelved After Leaks

Israel's Channel 12 has reported that a U.S.-Israeli plan for Kurdish fighters to enter northwestern Iran from Iraq under heavy American and Israeli air cover was shelved.

The operation, envisioned as part of an early-war scenario, aimed to trigger unrest in Iran's western provinces. It was abandoned after leaks compromised the element of surprise. Regional allies, including Turkey and Gulf Arab states, expressed concerns over the potential strengthening of Kurdish actors and destabilization of Iran. Kurdish groups hesitated to participate, citing mistrust and demanding political guarantees from Washington.

Washington maintained contacts with Kurdish leaders in Iraq during the initial days of the conflict. Axios reported that U.S. President Donald Trump held phone conversations with Masoud Barzani and Bafel Talabani in early March.

The Pentagon has been considering options for limited ground operations in Iran, according to the report.

Khaama Press cited Israel's Channel 12 and Axios in detailing the shelved plan and surrounding developments.