Five exiled Kurdish groups form coalition aiming to topple Iran's regime
Mar 2nd 2026
A new five-party Kurdish coalition formed in Iraqi Kurdistan on February 22 pledges coordinated political and on-the-ground efforts to topple Iran's clerical establishment and pursue Kurdish self-rule amid perceived Iranian weakness.
- Five groups—PAK, PDKI, PJAK, Khabat, and Komala of the Toilers—announced the Coalition of Political Forces in Iran Kurdistan on February 22.
- The coalition says its goals are to overthrow the Islamic republic and secure self-determination for Kurds in Iranian Kurdistan.
- Leaders say the alliance supports nationwide anti-government protests and spent about eight months negotiating a joint plan to administer Kurdish provinces during a transitional period.
- Significant fault lines remain, including PJAK's links to the Kurdistan Workers Party and public criticism from Komala leader Abdullah Mohtadi about the coalition's lack of a clear roadmap.
- The Kurdistan Regional Government in Iraq warned it will not allow its territory to be used against neighboring countries and sought to distance itself from the announcement.
- Analysts say the groups aim to exploit Iran's current weakness and may be preparing for scenarios including possible US military action, while Iran has previously struck exiled Kurdish groups and signed a 2023 security deal with Baghdad to move opposition forces away from the border.