The powerful leader of Iraq's Kurdish autonomous region is calling for American forces to stay in Iraq, the Associated Press reported.

Massoud Barzani rules the three northern provinces that make up the Kurds' self-ruled region. He said during a televised speech that if American troops leave sectarian violence might resurface.

Barzani said the central Iraqi government should sign an agreement with the U.S. to keep forces in the country.

All American forces are supposed to be out of Iraq by Dec. 31. But both Iraqi and U.S. officials say Iraq needs help protecting itself.