Tensions between the KRG and the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) forces over the presence of this Turkish opposition group in the KRG, especially in the Yazidi region of Shingal, have intensified in recent months, with some experts even warning of a war between KRG and PKK forces.

The Telegraph quoted some PKK leaders as saying that the reason for the PKK's presence in Shingal was to protect Yazidis after the 2014 ISIS attack on the region.

But Safin Dizaee, head of the Kurdistan Regional Government's foreign affairs department, told the newspaper: "Yes, it is true that the PKK fought against ISIS in Shingal, but this should not cause the PKK to impose itself in this region."

Addressing the PKK leaders, he added: "The PKK leaders who have been in Qandil for forty years should know that times have changed."

Hazem Tahsin Beg, the spiritual Leader of Yazidis in the egion, also told the British Telegraph: "Of course, we appreciate what the PKK did in the beginning of ISIS's attack on Shingal, but why are they still in Shingal?"

He accused the PKK of recruiting some Yazidis and transferring them to Qandil and stressed that no one should interfere in the affairs of the Yazidis.

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