ERBIL — Turkish security sources have warned of potential "operational consequences" if the Iraqi Kurdish leader does not change his approach, according to Middle East Eye.

Ankara has increased pressure on Bafel Talabani, head of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), alleging cooperation with Kurdish armed groups designated as terrorists. Tensions between Talabani’s PUK and Ankara have risen over the past two years, with Turkey accusing him of collaborating with PKK-affiliated groups in Syria.

In response, Ankara banned flights to Sulaymaniyah in northeastern Iraq, a PUK stronghold. Turkish officials, including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, have publicly criticized Talabani.

Despite these pressures, a Turkish source informed Middle East Eye that senior PKK members have reportedly undergone training in Sulaymaniyah. In March, Turkey's national intelligence service eliminated Gulsun Silgir, also known as Sara Hogir Riha, a senior PKK member responsible for youth camps near Sulaymaniyah.

Turkish security sources disclosed to Middle East Eye that Talabani has been warned about potential repercussions if he does not sever ties with the PKK. Throughout 2023, Turkey conducted military drone operations in Sulaymaniyah, resulting in the deaths of at least 15 senior PKK figures.

Recently, Talabani met with Iraqi National Security Adviser Qasim al-Araji in Sulaymaniyah to discuss Turkey's operations.

Sources within the PUK indicated internal divisions weakening Talabani's position, with expectations that the party's military wing will support Lahur, who founded the People’s Front party in January as a challenger to Bafel, in the upcoming Kurdistan elections.

A PUK source voiced concerns that internal discord could destabilize the region, potentially benefiting the PKK and Iran.

Turkish security sources revealed ongoing indirect communications with Bafel Talabani through intelligence channels and Qubad Talabani, also Kurdistan Region's deputy prime minister. Allegations of PKK ties have reportedly led to the rejection of direct meetings between Bafel Talabani and Turkish counterparts.