In the ever-changing geopolitical horizon of the Middle East, the Kurdish aspiration for self-determination stands as a beacon of hope and a unifying force. The Kurds, often regarded as the largest stateless ethnic group in the world, have long endured the pain of marginalization, cultural erosion, and political suppression. Scattered across Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Iran, they share a rich cultural, linguistic, and historical heritage. Yet, the borders drawn after World War I have fragmented their national identity and thwarted their long-cherished dream of autonomy and recognition.

The Kurdish Struggle and Its Global Implications

The Kurdish people have fought tirelessly for democracy, human rights, and self-governance. Their struggle is not just a regional issue; it has profound implications for the broader Middle East and international stability. Israel, a nation that has faced existential threats since its inception, must recognize the strategic importance of supporting Kurdish aspirations. By doing so, Israel can contribute to a balance of power that favours a more democratic and stable region—a balance that also benefits its own security interests.

For Israel, the Kurdish experience offers a parallel narrative of resilience. Kurds have demonstrated their ability to maintain order and security in areas plagued by chaos and extremism. Their role in combating terrorist groups such as ISIS has underscored their strategic importance. A united Kurdish front, with effective self-governance, can serve as a counterweight to authoritarian regimes in the region and help stabilize a turbulent neighbourhood. In this sense, supporting Kurdish self-determination is not merely an act of solidarity—it is a strategic imperative for regional security.

Regional Dynamics: The Role of Neighboring States

The Kurds' fate is closely intertwined with the policies of regional powers. In Turkey, for instance, the long-standing conflict between the Turkish state and Kurdish movements, has resulted in widespread displacement and loss of life. Turkish military operations in northern Syria and parts of Iraqi Kurdistan reflect Ankara's determination to suppress any form of Kurdish autonomy that could challenge its territorial integrity.

In Iran, the Kurdish population faces systemic apartheid and cultural suppression. Since 1979, following Ayatollah Khomeini’s declaration of jihad against the Kurdish people, Islamic regimes have imposed policies that restrict the Kurdish language, cultural expression, and political participation. Recent uprisings, sparked by events such as the death of Jina Amini, have further galvanized Kurdish activism in Iran; however, these movements have also been met with brutal state repression.

Syria presents a complex scenario. In the wake of the civil war, Kurdish-led groups established a de facto autonomous region known as Rojava. This experiment in self-governance—marked by democratic councils, gender equality, and an inclusive model—has earned international acclaim for its innovative approach to local democracy. However, the withdrawal of U.S. troops in 2019 and the subsequent Turkish military offensives have left Rojava vulnerable, complicating Kurdish aspirations further.

In Iraq, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) remains one of the few instances of Kurdish autonomy. Despite notable progress in political stability and economic development, the KRG grapples with internal divisions and disputes with Baghdad over oil revenues and territorial control. These challenges highlight the fragile balance between asserting autonomy and managing regional pressures.

Global Geopolitical Shifts and the EU Perspective

Beyond the regional power struggles, global geopolitical shifts play a significant role in shaping the Kurdish question. The Russian-Ukrainian conflict, the recalibration of alliances, and the evolving priorities of major powers have indirectly affected the dynamics in the Middle East. As traditional allies such as the United States adjust their strategies in the region, the Kurdish people find themselves increasingly caught in the crossfire.

The European Union, for its part, has demonstrated a growing awareness of human rights and minority issues, including those affecting the Kurds. Several EU member states have provided humanitarian aid and political support to Kurdish groups, particularly during their struggle against extremist forces. However, the EU’s response remains cautious. The need to maintain good relations with Turkey—an essential partner in trade, migration management, and regional security—limits the EU’s willingness to offer unequivocal political backing for Kurdish independence.

Nevertheless, from a regional development perspective, supporting Kurdish self-determination can serve as a catalyst for economic and social progress. The Kurdish regions, especially in Iraq and parts of Syria, are rich in natural resources. With the right governance structures and autonomy, these areas could spearhead regional economic development, attract foreign investment, and serve as models of sustainable growth in a post-conflict environment.

Moreover, the EU stands to gain by fostering a stable, democratic, and economically vibrant Kurdish region. This stability would not only reduce the risk of radicalisation and conflict spillover into Europe but also create new markets and partnerships. Investment in Kurdish infrastructure, education, and technology could promote long-term regional integration, aligning with the EU’s broader goals of security, prosperity, and human rights.

Why Israel and the West Should View the Kurds as Strategic Allies

The strategic importance of the Kurds extends far beyond their contribution to counterterrorism efforts. The Kurdish people have a long history of resilience and self-reliance, qualities that are invaluable in a region marked by instability. For Israel and Western countries, supporting Kurdish aspirations is a means to strengthen the overall security framework of the Middle East.

Firstly, the Kurds’ proven ability to combat extremist groups such as ISIS positions them as reliable partners in the fight against terrorism. Their on-ground experience in establishing order in fragmented regions provides a template for effective local governance—a quality that can contribute to broader regional stability.

Secondly, a unified Kurdish movement would serve as a counterbalance to the influence of authoritarian regimes, particularly in Turkey and Iran. By fostering an environment where the Kurdish people can exercise self-determination, Israel and the West can help create a more balanced regional power structure. This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of unilateral military actions that could destabilize the region further.

Thirdly, from a humanitarian perspective, supporting Kurdish rights aligns with the democratic values that Israel and Western nations champion. The Kurdish struggle for recognition and self-governance is fundamentally a struggle for human dignity. Helping the Kurds achieve their aspirations not only addresses an age-old injustice but also sets a precedent for the protection of minority rights worldwide.

Economic and Social Benefits of a Stable Kurdistan

If the Kurdish people are granted the opportunity to govern themselves with full recognition of their cultural and political rights, the benefits could extend well beyond the borders of Kurdistan. A stable Kurdish region could stimulate regional trade, attract foreign investment, and foster economic innovation. This would, in turn, benefit neighbouring countries and contribute to the overall development of the Middle East.

Socially, a thriving Kurdish region would encourage greater cultural exchange and dialogue between different ethnic groups. This, combined with robust democratic institutions, could serve as a model for inclusive governance in other parts of the region. For Israel and the EU, such developments are strategically important: they create a buffer against instability and promote a future of shared prosperity and peaceful coexistence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Kurdish question is not a peripheral issue—it is central to the future stability and development of the Middle East. The strategic necessity of supporting Kurdish self-determination extends to all global stakeholders, from Israel to the EU and beyond. By recognising the Kurdish struggle as one for fundamental human rights and democratic values, the international community can help forge alliances that contribute to lasting peace and economic progress.

Supporting the Kurds means not only addressing historical injustices but also paving the way for a more secure, balanced, and prosperous Middle East. The fate of the Kurds, therefore, is intrinsically linked to the broader future of the region—a future that promises a new order based on justice, unity, and mutual respect.