Pompeo: Handing Over Al-Tanf Base to Syrian Government an Uncalculated Risk
ARK News.. Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has warned of the repercussions of a decision to transfer control of the al-Tanf military base to the Syrian government, describing the move as “highly dangerous.”
In a post on X, Pompeo said the recent conduct of the Syrian government under Ahmad al-Sharaa makes any decision to relinquish the strategic base an uncalculated risk.
He stressed that such a step would expose “regional stability and U.S. national security” to direct threats, calling for extreme caution and precision in handling the matter. “We need to make the right decision on this issue, because a great deal depends on it,” he wrote.
The al-Tanf Base, located at the tri-border area between Syria, Iraq, and Jordan, is considered one of the most important U.S. military installations in the region. It has played a pivotal role in counter terrorism operations and in monitoring regional movements.
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Nechirvan Barzani and Asaad Al-Shaibani Emphasize Protection of Syria’s Communities
ARK News.. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani to discuss Syria’s relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, as well as the latest developments in Syria and their implications for regional security and stability.
The meeting took place on Saturday, February 14, 2026, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference. Both sides stressed the importance of resolving tensions in Syria and ensuring the protection of the rights of all components of Syrian society.
Discussions also addressed the humanitarian situation of displaced persons and the need to strengthen national dialogue in pursuit of a stable future for the country.
The Syrian foreign minister praised the leadership of the Kurdistan Region for its role in supporting the Damascus–SDF agreement, assisting displaced populations, and contributing to regional stability.
For his part, President Barzani expressed hope for security and stability in Syria, underscoring the importance of safeguarding Kurdish rights in the forthcoming constitution of a unified Syria.
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Nechirvan Barzani and Marco Rubio Reaffirm Commitment to Protecting Kurdish and Minority Rights in Syria
ARK News.. On the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Region, met with Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, as part of his ongoing diplomatic engagements.
The two sides discussed U.S. relations with Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, as well as prospects for expanding bilateral cooperation. President Barzani reiterated his appreciation for continued U.S. support to Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
For his part, Secretary Rubio reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Iraq and the Kurdistan Region and to safeguarding security and stability in the region, praising the Kurdistan Region’s role as a key partner and a stabilizing force.
Developments in Syria and the rights of Kurds there also featured prominently in the talks. Both sides stressed the importance of protecting the rights of Kurds and all components within a unified Syria.
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Europe Representation of the Kurdish National Council Holds Political Seminar on Current Developments
ARK News.. The Europe Representation of the Kurdish National Council (KNC) in Syria organized an online political seminar attended by a member of the KNC Presidency Committee, along with members of the Kurdish diaspora and individuals interested in Kurdish and Syrian affairs.
During the seminar, Faisal Youssef, a member of the Council’s Presidency Committee, addressed a range of pressing political issues, with particular focus on the Council’s recent meetings in Damascus, Qatar, and the Kurdistan Region, and the implications of these engagements within the broader context of reshaping the Syrian political landscape.
Youssef also highlighted the role of the Kurdish reference authority, represented by President Masoud Barzani, in supporting stability in Kurdish areas of Syria and in efforts to contain tensions and prevent clashes, particularly between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian Interim Government.
He emphasized that the Council’s political engagement is part of broader efforts to unify the Kurdish position and strengthen its representation in any comprehensive Syrian political process, underscoring the need to prioritize dialogue and avoid internal conflicts that could further drain resources and weaken collective efforts.
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Vatican Praises Climate of Tolerance and Coexistence in the Kurdistan Region
ARK News.. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani met on Saturday, February 14, 2026, with Paul Richard Gallagher, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States, on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed the latest regional developments and the situation of religious and ethnic communities. President Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of all components and promoting a culture of coexistence.
For his part, Gallagher praised the atmosphere of tolerance and peaceful coexistence in the Kurdistan Region and expressed the Holy See’s support for security and stability in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
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Omed Khoshnaw: We Will Not Allow Any Demonstration in Erbil Without an Official Permit
ARK News.. The governor of Erbil announced that demonstrations without a permit are strictly prohibited for any person or entity, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. He emphasized that any party organizing a demonstration without obtaining official approval will face the necessary legal measures from security forces.
Omed Khoshnaw, the governor of Erbil and head of its security committee, stated: "Regarding the demonstration that took place last week in Erbil under the pretext of insulting religious sanctities, the root of the issue lies in a poem recited by a teenage boy during previous demonstrations in support of Western Kurdistan. The poem was not his own work, and the boy and his Muslim family have issued public apologies on several occasions. However, some individuals exploited this situation to organize an unlicensed demonstration in the city center."
The governor of Erbil emphasized, "We reiterate that demonstrating without prior authorization is illegal for any party whatsoever. Anyone who violates this and participates in an unlicensed demonstration will face the necessary deterrent measures from the security forces."
He added, "For some time now, certain extremists have been calling for new demonstrations in Erbil, but there is no justification for this. Therefore, we have granted full authority to the security forces (Asayish and police) to take strict measures against anyone who engages in such actions. Demonstrations, gatherings, and protests have their own specific legal frameworks, and we will not permit any demonstration in Erbil without official authorization."
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UN Security Council Urges Syrian Government and SDF to Uphold Agreement
ARK News.. Members of the UN Security Council have welcomed the comprehensive agreement between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces, as well as the start of its implementation, according to the official UN News website.
In a press statement published on Thursday, Feb. 13, 2026, Council members stressed the need for both parties to adhere to the agreement to reduce civilian suffering, support counterterrorism efforts, ensure the protection of civilians, guarantee unimpeded access for humanitarian assistance, and continue Syria’s post-war recovery.
The statement said members also welcomed Decree No. 13 issued by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa to guarantee the rights of Syrian Kurds. They encouraged further progress in integrating Kurdish representatives into the government and facilitating the return of displaced Kurds to their areas of origin, underscoring the Syrian government’s primary responsibility to protect all its citizens.
The Council further called on all parties to avoid any security vacuum in and around detention centers holding Islamic State fighters in northeastern Syria.
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European Union: Syrian Government Responsible for Counter terrorism Inside the Country
ARK News.. The European Commissioner for the Mediterranean affirmed that the Syrian government is now the primary authority responsible for counter terrorism efforts within the country, underscoring Syria’s pivotal role in strengthening security in both the region and Europe.
Speaking during a session of the European Parliament to discuss the latest developments in northeastern Syria, Commissioner “Dubravka Šuica” said recent events have once again highlighted ongoing security risks, including the potential resurgence of ISIS activity.
“Šuica” added that the transfer of approximately 2,250 ISIS members to Iraq has helped ease pressure, but does not eliminate the scale of existing challenges. She stressed the need to maintain humanitarian support, alongside funding recovery and reconstruction projects, to ensure sustainable stability.
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Qamishlo: Barzani Charity Distributes 480,000 Free Bread Bundles to Displaced Families and Residents
ARK News.. Barzani Charity Foundation announced the launch of a new humanitarian initiative in the city of Qamishlo, providing free bread to residents by supplying public bakeries with flour, in a move aimed at easing living burdens amid difficult economic conditions.
Karzan Nori, a member of the Foundation’s administrative board, stated during a press conference in Qamishlo on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, that 200 tons of flour have been secured for local bakeries. This will enable the production of approximately 10,000 bundles of bread per day—sufficient to cover the city’s needs for 48 days. The project may be extended later depending on available resources and field assessments.
In a related context, the Foundation disclosed the outcome of its humanitarian operations over the past 21 days in the Jazira cities of Syrian Kurdistan, noting that 401 aid trucks entered from the Kurdistan Region.
The Foundation reported that 97,559 individuals benefited from daily meal distributions carried out in 536 schools and 38 mosques as part of its food relief programs. Additionally, 18,932 families received food baskets and non-food assistance, supported by donations from the Kurdistan Region, distributed across 269 schools and 21 mosques.
Over the past three days, the Foundation began implementing a new initiative to deliver aid to rural areas of Derik and Amouda, reaching 102 villages so far. As part of its support for displaced families living outside shelters, 2,071 families have received humanitarian assistance, with daily distributions ongoing.
Amid intensifying cold weather, the Foundation confirmed the distribution of 394,841 liters of heating fuel, benefiting 9,531 families across 256 schools and 12 mosques. In the health sector, 8,077 individuals received medical consultations, treatment, and healthcare services provided by the Foundation’s medical teams. In addition, more than 20 tons of medicines and medical supplies were delivered to hospitals in the Jazira region.
Barzani Charity affirmed that relief operations will continue in the coming period, with plans to expand assistance to all residents of Jazira cities, particularly the most vulnerable families in Qamishlo neighborhoods. The Foundation also announced its intention to participate in the “Dignified Return” initiative for residents of Afrin and other areas, by monitoring their conditions and providing necessary support for their return to their original homes.
As part of its future strategy, Barzani Charity unveiled a package of long-term humanitarian projects focusing on the most vulnerable groups in society. These projects include sponsorship and care programs for orphaned children, as well as dedicated support initiatives for people with special needs, aimed at improving living conditions and ensuring sustainable access to essential services.
The Foundation further noted that it continues efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance to the city of Kobani through coordination with relevant authorities, local officials, and United Nations agencies to secure a humanitarian corridor for aid entry.
It expressed regret over the lack of a positive response so far but affirmed its commitment to overcoming obstacles and ensuring that assistance reaches residents as soon as possible.
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Bezhijkian: Iran Not Seeking Nuclear Weapons
ARK News.. Iranian President Masoud Bezhijkian affirmed that his country is exerting all efforts to resolve its current crises, stressing that Tehran has no intention of acquiring nuclear weapons.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, Bezhijkian said, “The priority at this stage is to improve citizens’ living conditions and provide essential services.”
He emphasized that the government’s duty is to serve the people and that it does not seek internal confrontation. Regarding the nuclear file, Bezhijkian reiterated Iran’s stance of not pursuing nuclear weapons and expressed Tehran’s readiness for full verification and inspections to demonstrate this.
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