President Donald Trump claimed in a Fox News interview that the U.S. sent weapons to Iranian protesters through Kurdish groups, but the arms were allegedly retained by the Kurds. The revelation comes amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran, following recent strikes and protests in Iran.
Kurdish Groups Deny Receiving Arms
Kurdish Iranian opposition groups have denied receiving weapons from the U.S., following a Fox News report. The groups, which include the Democratic Party of Iranian Kurdistan (PDKI), the Kurdistan Freedom Party (PAK), the Kurdistan Free Life Party (PJAK), a branch of the Komala party, and Khabat, have been cautious about engaging in direct conflict with Iran. They fear a regime crackdown, especially after Iranian drones and missiles targeted Kurdish positions, killing and wounding members.
Trump’s Allegations
Trump told Fox News that the U.S. sent a significant number of guns to Iranian protesters through Kurdish intermediaries but believes the Kurds kept them. He also claimed that the Iranian government killed 45,000 civilians during recent protests. The president’s remarks come as the U.S. and Iran remain in a tense standoff, with Trump threatening to target Iranian power plants if a deal to open the Strait of Hormuz is not reached.
Context of Kurdish Involvement
Kurdish groups have been coordinating more closely since protests began in Iran in late 2025. A coalition of five Kurdish groups was formed in February to align their policies on Iran. However, they have resisted calls for an uprising, fearing severe retaliation from the Iranian regime. The groups represent a broad spectrum of Kurdish politics, from nationalist to conservative religious factions.
U.S. Policy and Kurdish Relations
Trump has previously sought to distance the U.S. from Kurdish involvement in the Iran conflict, reversing earlier rhetoric that appeared to welcome their participation. He has emphasized that allies must take responsibility for their own security, framing the Kurds as outside the scope of American commitments. This stance aligns with his broader policy of downplaying long-term U.S. obligations to regional partners.