Macron Condemns Drone Attack on Nechirvan Barzani’s Residence; Reaffirms French Support
Peregraf — French President Emmanuel Macron condemned a drone attack targeting the residence of Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani in the city of Duhok during a phone call on Saturday. According to the Kurdistan Region Presidency, Macron expressed his rejection of the strike and reaffirmed France’s ongoing support for the Kurdistan Region and Iraq amid the current regional escalation.
The drone attack, which occurred at approximately 11:16 AM, was captured in footage that confirms the strike and the sound of heavy automatic gunfire as security forces attempted to shoot the drone down. The engagement was followed by a large explosion and a plume of white smoke at the property.
During the call, President Macron extended condolences for the Peshmerga fighters killed during the March 24 strikes in Soran and discussed the necessity of diplomatic efforts to end the broader conflict. President Barzani expressed his appreciation for French solidarity and emphasized the importance of international coordination to stabilize the region.
Footage shows a drone attack targeting the residence of Nechirvan Barzani in Duhok, with security guards shooting the drone. Iraqi PM Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani condemns the incident and orders a joint federal-KRG investigation. pic.twitter.com/HEYDPpcSNZ
Earlier on Saturday, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani also held a call with Barzani to condemn the attack. Al-Sudani directed the formation of a joint security and technical committee—comprising federal security agencies and Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) forces—to investigate the technical aspects of the Duhok strike and identify those responsible.
This incident occurred on the 29th day of the US–Israel War on Iran, which began on February 28, 2026. Data compiled by the Peregraf Media Foundation indicates that over 500 drones and missiles have targeted the Kurdistan Region since the war's commencement. These operations are attributed to the Iranian military or the Islamic Resistance in Iraq.
To date, the conflict has resulted in at least 13 fatalities, including Peshmerga and security personnel, with approximately 50 others wounded. The most significant loss of life occurred on March 24, when six Peshmerga fighters were killed in ballistic missile strikes in Erbil Province. While federal and international leaders have addressed the Duhok attack, the Kurdistan Region Presidency has not yet issued a formal public statement regarding the specific details of the strike on the residence.