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The Prime Minister also expressed disappointment over the Iraqi Federal Government’s failure to provide rightful compensation to the victims of Halabja and the Anfal campaign, despite constitutional and legal obligations to do so.
On the solemn occasion of the 37th anniversary of the Halabja chemical attack, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani issued a statement honoring the memory of the thousands of innocent victims who perished in one of the most horrific atrocities of the 20th century.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani reaffirmed the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) commitment to seeking justice for the victims, recognizing their suffering, and ensuring that Halabja receives the services and recognition it deserves.
“On the anniversary of the chemical attack on the city of Halabja and its surroundings, today we respectfully commemorate the victims of this genocide committed by the former Iraqi regime, who remain forever in our memory. We express our profound gratitude for the sacrifices made by the patriotic and struggling people of Halabja, especially the survivors of the catastrophe and the dignified families of the martyrs,” PM Barzani stated.
The chemical bombardment of Halabja on March 16, 1988, by Saddam Hussein’s Baathist regime resulted in the mass killing of thousands of civilians and caused devastating long-term health and environmental consequences.
Despite the passage of 37 years, the wounds inflicted by this atrocity remain fresh, with survivors continuing to suffer physically and emotionally from the effects of the attack.
Ongoing Struggle for Justice and Recognition
While some of the key figures responsible for the Halabja massacre have been held accountable, Prime Minister Barzani emphasized that the quest for justice is far from complete.
He called for continued efforts to gain broader international recognition of the Halabja genocide, as well as the Anfal campaign and other crimes committed against the Kurdish people.
“Although some of the main perpetrators and those responsible for this crime have received their punishment, despite the passage of 37 years since this great tragedy, the wounds of this crime have not yet healed. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to work toward further recognition of the Halabja genocide, the Anfal campaign, and all other crimes committed against the people of Kurdistan, and to provide better services to the families of martyrs and victims of these crimes,” he asserted.
Commitment to Halabja’s Development
PM Barzani reiterated that the KRG considers it a primary duty to enhance services and improve the quality of life for Halabja’s residents. He acknowledged the ongoing challenges faced by the province and assured that further efforts would be made to meet the needs of its people.
“In recent years, numerous service projects have been implemented in various sectors in Halabja Province. However, we recognize that Halabja requires additional services. In this regard, we reassure the respected and sacrificing residents of Halabja Province that we will provide better and increased services to the area in the future,” he stated.
The Kurdistan Regional Government has undertaken several infrastructure and development projects in Halabja, but despite these efforts, many essential needs remain unmet.
PM Barzani’s statement underscores the KRG’s determination to continue investing in healthcare, education, and economic development to support Halabja’s residents.
Unfulfilled Promises from the Federal Government
The Prime Minister also expressed disappointment over the Iraqi Federal Government’s failure to provide rightful compensation to the victims of Halabja and the Anfal campaign, despite constitutional and legal obligations to do so. He criticized the lack of action in officially approving Halabja’s status as a province, a move long awaited by its residents.
“It is regrettable that the Federal Government has not yet fulfilled its constitutional and legal responsibility to compensate the families of the victims and martyrs of Halabja and the Anfal campaign. Even until now, the Council of Representatives has not approved Halabja’s provincial status. We therefore call for an end to negligence toward Halabja’s sacrifices, for appropriate compensation to be provided, and for its provincial status to be approved as soon as possible,” PM Barzani declared.
The recognition of Halabja as a province is a longstanding demand, seen as crucial for the city’s growth and governance.
While the Kurdistan Regional Government has taken steps to enhance administrative services, full provincial status would provide Halabja with the necessary legal and financial framework to address its developmental needs effectively.
Honoring the Martyrs of Halabja
Closing his statement, Prime Minister Barzani paid tribute to the victims of the Halabja genocide and all those who have sacrificed their lives for the Kurdish cause.
He reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to preserving their memory and seeking justice on their behalf.
“We salute the pure souls of the martyrs of Halabja and all martyrs of Kurdistan,” he concluded.
As Kurdistan and the broader Kurdish diaspora commemorate this tragic anniversary, calls for justice and accountability grow louder. The demand for international recognition of the Halabja genocide, reparations for the victims, and meaningful development in the province remain at the forefront of Kurdish aspirations.
While the pain of the past lingers, the resilience of Halabja’s people stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Kurdish nation.