Escalation between Iranian forces and Kurdish groups

On March 2, 2026, armed Kurdish groups, including the Kurdistan Free Life Party (PJAK), allegedly launched a ground military offensive into Iranian territory, moving into the Zagros Mountains. A spokesperson for the Coalition of Political Forces of Iranian Kurdistan (CPFIK) claimed that thousands of fighters initiated combat maneuvers at midnight on March 2. By March 3, reports indicated that Iranian forces had evacuated the border city of Mariwan to establish defensive positions. Concurrently, Iran stated that it launched three missiles against Kurdish headquarters within the autonomous Kurdistan region of Iraq. These actions follow reports that the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency has been exploring plans to arm Kurdish groups to pressure the Iranian government. The PJAK utilizes two armed wings, the YRK and the HPJ, to conduct its operations. Tensions remain high as both sides report military repositioning in the border regions.