© 2025 Michigan State University Board of Trustees
Public Media from Michigan State University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

U.S.-Backed Kurdish Leaders Accused of Abuse

Some Kurds in northern Iraq charge they were victims of abuse and corruption by the two main Kurdish political parties that have controlled the region with U.S. and British support since 1992. American staffers in the region privately express alarm about the behavior of their war-time allies. NPR's Ivan Watson reports.

Copyright 2003 NPR

Ivan Watson
Ivan Watson is currently based in Istanbul, Turkey. Following the 9-11 terrorist attacks, he has served as one of NPR's foreign "firemen," shuttling to and from hotspots around the Middle East and Central Asia.
Local journalism matters—and it’s at risk.


WKAR brings you trusted news, without barriers—no paywalls, no corporate spin. But now, federal funding that helps make it all possible is on the chopping block. Your support is more important than ever. Stand up for independent journalism in mid-Michigan—make your gift today.