Kurdistan: the Glorious Past and the Exciting Future

[Anthea]

UAE Hails Kurdistan’s Runaki Project
as Economic Turning Point

Sheikha Bashir Farhan, the Chargé d’Affaires of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Consulate General in the Kurdistan Region, has praised the “Runaki Project” for 24-hour electricity as a major step forward for the Region’s service and economic sectors

The statement came during a meeting in Erbil with Kamal Mohammed Salih, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Minister of Electricity and Acting Minister of Natural Resources, according to a release from the Ministry of Electricity.

The meeting, attended by the Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and several senior officials from the Ministry of Electricity, was held to welcome Sheikha Bashir Farhan to her new role.

Minister Salih congratulated her on her appointment and wished her success in strengthening bilateral ties.

In response, Sheikha Farhan expressed her appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to its strategic partnership with the Kurdistan Region.

She specifically highlighted the importance of the Runaki Project, describing it as “a significant turning point in the fields of services and economy in the Kurdistan Region.”

The discussions also focused on expanding UAE investments in the Region’s energy sector, particularly in oil, gas, and renewable energy.

The acting Consul General emphasized the UAE’s readiness to deepen economic cooperation by launching new initiatives, especially in solar energy development.

The Runaki Project, aimed at providing uninterrupted 24-hour electricity in the Kurdistan Region, represents a cornerstone in the KRG’s efforts to modernize its energy infrastructure and reduce dependence on power imports.

The project is part of broader reforms to attract foreign investment and promote sustainable energy.

The UAE has been an active economic partner in the Region, investing in sectors such as energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.

With global emphasis shifting toward renewable energy, both the UAE and the Kurdistan Region have signaled mutual interest in solar energy collaboration to meet growing demand and ensure energy security.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/890493

[Anthea]

Solar Initiative to Power
120 Kurdistan Schools

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) is significantly expanding its solar power initiative for schools, with the Ministry of Education announcing a new collaboration with the Barzani Charity Foundation (BCF) to equip an additional 25 schools, bringing the total number of solar-powered educational institutions across the region to 120

The announcement was made by KRG Minister of Education, Alan Hama Saeed, during a press conference held in Duhok province. He detailed the joint effort to provide a more stable and suitable learning environment for students through renewable energy.

"Last year, the Barzani Charity Foundation converted 10 schools to solar power," Minister Hama Saeed stated. "This brings the total number of schools converted by the Barzani Charity Foundation to 35."

He explained that prior to this new project, a total of 95 schools across the provinces and independent administrations of the Kurdistan Region had already been equipped with solar energy systems. These previous projects were funded by the Kurdistan Regional Government and various international organizations.

The Minister of Education noted that with the latest BCF-led project to equip 25 more schools in the provinces of Duhok, Halabja, and Erbil, the total number of schools in the Kurdistan Region utilizing solar power will officially reach 120.

During the press conference, Hama Saeed also praised the progress of the education sector in Duhok province, highlighting its positive ripple effects on the community. "The education sector in Duhok province is growing," he affirmed, noting that it has "had an impact on other sectors, such as environmental cleanliness, which has helped make Duhok one of the cleanest cities."

He concluded by expressing his optimism for the new initiative's impact on student life. He expressed hope that the work of the Barzani Charity Foundation "will create a better and more suitable environment for students within the educational centers."

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/85 ... on-schools

[Anthea]

Zakho's New Corniche Transforms the City

and Doubles Tourist Numbers

Zakho's second phase Corniche is transforming the city!, 85% complete with lush gardens, a sparkling 3km riverside promenade, and restored historic sites. Tourism already booming by 40% - set to DOUBLE when finished

The new Zakho Corniche is rapidly reshaping the city’s landscape and has already led to a significant increase in tourist arrivals, with expectations that the number of visitors will double once the project’s second phase is fully completed, according to officials.

Engineer Sarbast Abdul Sattar Abdul Karim, Director of the Zakho Corniche Phase II Project at the General Directorate of Tourism in Zakho, told Kurdistan24 in an interview that construction progress is moving at a fast pace, with 85% of the second phase now completed. He explained that the project, encompassing both its first and second phases, was launched following a direct directive from Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.

The first phase of the Corniche has already been finalized, while current efforts focus on landscaping and greening large swaths of the area—50% of the total project surface will be dedicated to green spaces. This includes tree planting along both banks of the Khabur River, in addition to expanding public service and recreational facilities for residents and visitors alike.

Structural enhancements include a 50-meter-wide retaining wall built between the riverbanks and the installation of various-sized water drainage channels to bolster the project’s infrastructure. The pedestrian walkway now stretches eight meters wide along a new three-kilometer path, with continuous work on tree planting, lighting pole installation, benches, and waste bins.

As part of the redevelopment, the Haji Ibrahim Mosque—demolished due to construction—has been rebuilt. Restoration work has also been undertaken at Zakho’s historic Qishla, a site of cultural importance that is now being integrated into the city’s modern identity. Tourists can walk freely along the new riverside promenade, enjoying views of the iconic Delal Bridge, one of Zakho’s most renowned landmarks.

Engineer Abdul Karim affirmed that Zakho has already witnessed a marked increase in tourism as a direct result of the Corniche project. Based on current projections, he anticipates a 100% surge in visitor numbers once the second phase is complete. In recent years, official statistics have shown a tourism growth rate of 30–40%.

The Corniche project is one of many initiatives that have accelerated since Zakho was designated as an independent administration on September 20, 2021. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has spearheaded a comprehensive infrastructure overhaul aimed at elevating the city’s administrative, economic, and public service sectors.

According to KRG data, Zakho has seen a total of 286 development projects launched over the past three years. Of these, 218 have been completed, while 68 are currently under construction. The Corniche stands out as a flagship achievement, symbolizing both the city’s transformation and the broader vision of progress under the KRG’s ninth cabinet.

With its modern urban design, historical preservation efforts, and expanded tourism infrastructure, Zakho’s new Corniche not only redefines the city's aesthetic but also cements its status as a rising destination in the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/85 ... st-numbers

[Anthea]

Erbil to Build Grand Ecological
and Cultural Park

Kurdistan’s Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism announced on Wednesday plans to construct a grand ecological and cultural park in Erbil, aiming to reflect the region’s rich natural beauty and cultural heritage

In a statement released on Wednesday, the ministry said it is launching a design competition for the landmark project and is inviting both local and international engineering firms to participate. The project will be overseen by the General Directorate of Urban Planning.

“The goal of this strategic initiative is to create a prominent ecological park that serves as a sustainable, cultural, and ecological landmark,” the statement read.

“The vision is to embody the rich nature and culture of the Kurdistan Region.”

Interested consulting engineering firms must visit the General Directorate of Urban Planning by August 20, 2025, during official working hours (8:30 AM to 2:00 PM), to collect the program details and competition requirements.

All registered engineering firms, both local and international, are eligible to apply. The top three selected designs will receive financial prizes.

This initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the Kurdistan Regional Government to expand green spaces, promote sustainable development, and enhance the cultural and environmental appeal of the capital city.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/891314

[Anthea]

President Barzani Acknowledges
KSDP's Historic Struggle

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – President Masoud Barzani on Friday extended formal congratulations to the Kurdistan Social Democratic Party on the occasion of its forty-ninth founding anniversary, commending the party's long history of struggle and sacrifice in a message addressed to its leadership and members

The formal communication was detailed in a statement released by the Barzani Headquarters on Friday. The message serves as a high-level acknowledgment of the party's decades-long presence in the Kurdistan Region's political arena.

In the congratulatory note, President Barzani conveyed his "warmest congratulations" directly to key figures and the broader organization. The message was specifically directed to Mohammed Haji Mahmoud, the Secretary-General of the Kurdistan Social Democratic Party. The President also extended his congratulations to the members of the party's leadership, as well as to its entire membership and supporter base, recognizing the collective effort of the organization.

Beyond extending anniversary wishes, the President's message placed a significant emphasis on the party's historical contributions. He expressed explicit "appreciation for the struggle and sacrifices" made by Secretary-General Mohammed Haji Mahmoud and the party’s dedicated cadres, members, and supporters.

The statement from Barzani Headquarters further noted that this appreciation was framed within the broader context of the Kurdish cause. The President's message highlighted the party's role "during the various stages and phases of our nation's struggle," underscoring a recognition of its perseverance and commitment through pivotal moments in the nation's history.

President Barzani's best wishes for the party's future endeavors.

The statement relayed that the President "wished them success" as they move forward from this significant milestone. The communication encapsulates both a reflection on past sacrifices and a hopeful look toward the party's continued activities.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/85 ... nniversary

[Anthea]

President Barzani’s “Legendary” Leadership

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — President Masoud Barzani on Sunday welcomed both the new US Consul General in Erbil, Gwendolyn Green, and her predecessor, Steven Bitner, at his headquarters in Pirmam, Erbil

During the meeting, President Barzani wished both diplomats success in their new assignments. He also expressed gratitude and appreciation to the outgoing US Consul General for his notable role in advancing relations between the Kurdistan Region and the United States, as well as for his contributions to joint reforms within the Ministry of Peshmerga.

Barzani highlighted Washington’s steadfast support for the Kurdistan Region, recalling its positions since the 1991 uprising, the toppling of Iraq’s former regime, and the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS). He praised the United States for its continued backing of the Kurdish people during pivotal moments.

Consul General Bitner expressed his deep appreciation for his time working in the Kurdistan Region, commending President Barzani and government institutions for their cooperation. He emphasized the strong ties between the US and the Kurdistan Region, while also noting the current political climate, the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary elections, the formation of the new Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) cabinet, and Barzani’s role in stabilizing the situation across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

For her part, the incoming US Consul General lauded President Barzani’s leadership, describing his role as “legendary,” and underscored the importance of maintaining and strengthening the enduring bilateral relationship between the United States and the Kurdistan Region.

The meeting also touched on recent regional developments, including challenges in the peace process in Turkey, the situation in Syria, and other pressing issues in the Middle East.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/85 ... me-meeting

[Anthea]

KDP Vice president Congratulates President Barzani
on Birthday and KDP Anniversary

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Vice president Masrour Barzani has extended warm congratulations to President Masoud Barzani on the occasion of his birthday, which coincides with the anniversary of the founding of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP)

In a statement released on his official Facebook page, the Vice president congratulated “the father, leader, president, and Peshmerga” and offered special salutations to “the families of the righteous martyrs and the valiant Peshmerga,” asking Almighty God to protect them and grant them health and well-being.

“We wish we had reached, in serving Your Excellency, the level that befits your great stature and standing,” he said, renewing the pledge to uphold President Barzani’s “approach, guidance, vision, and aspirations for a free, safe, stable, and prosperous Kurdistan—where rights are preserved—as a beacon to guide our daily work and fulfill our national duty.”

The Vice president concluded by expressing enduring appreciation: “May you remain with us, may your giving endure in reaching the peaks of success, and may the Kurdistan Democratic Party remain at the forefront of the march toward progress and soundness.”

KDP Reaffirms National Principles on 79th Anniversary

In a separate statement marking its 79th founding anniversary, the KDP’s Political Bureau underscored its steadfast adherence to the immortal Barzani doctrine, pledging to defend the rights of the Kurdish people, safeguard constitutional achievements, and protect Kurdistan’s legitimate institutions.

The party called for resolving outstanding issues between Erbil and Baghdad through dialogue, emphasizing the need for free and transparent Iraqi elections on Nov. 11, 2025. It reaffirmed the principles of partnership, balance, and consensus to address disputes within the framework of a federal Iraq.

Highlighting its historic role from the September Revolution to the March 1991 Uprising, the KDP reiterated its commitment to Kurdistani identity, democratic values, and peaceful coexistence among the region’s diverse communities.

The statement stressed that the KDP will continue to foster balanced relations with neighboring states while preserving regional stability, vowing not to allow Kurdistan to be a source of threats to others, and expecting the same respect in return.

Concluding with a tribute to the immortal Mustafa Barzani, Kak Idris, and all martyrs of the Kurdish cause, the party vowed to carry forward the legacy of sacrifice, unity, and the protection of Kurdistan’s political and constitutional entity.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/85 ... nniversary

[Anthea]

KDP, PUK Reach Agreement
for New Kurdistan Cabinet

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) have reached an agreement on the principles for forming the new cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), according to KDP spokesperson Mahmoud Mohammed

Speaking to Kurdistan 24 on Saturday, Mohammed said that the agreement focuses on protecting the entity of the Kurdistan Region, preserving its achievements, and addressing future challenges.

He added that other matters, including the distribution of cabinet posts, parliamentary affairs, and several additional issues, are still under discussion and could be finalized in the coming days.

“Each side has taken time to understand the other’s approach to governance,” Mohammed said.

“While the KDP and PUK may have different ideas on the style of governance, there are no points of disagreement that would prevent the formation of the government,” he added.

The agreement followed the election for the sixth term of the Kurdistan Parliament on October 20, 2024, in which the KDP secured a majority with 39 seats and the PUK won 23 seats.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/892128

The only way you can focus on protecting the entity of the Kurdistan Region is too ARREST THE TRAITOR BAFELl TALABANI Because he has already destroyed the entity of the Kurdistan Region by committing TREASON and giving part of Kurdistan to Iraq

[Anthea]

Kurdistan To Host Second International
Conference On Kurdish Genocide

Kurdistan’s Ministry of Culture and Youth will host the second international scientific conference on the genocide of the Kurds and its reflection in literature, art, and media on August 25–26 in Sulaymaniyah

Conference spokesperson Namiq Hawrami said in a press briefing that the two-day event will feature 28 research papers presented by specialists and experts, which have been reviewed and approved by a committee.

“We are pleased that, in addition to Kurdish researchers, participants from seven other countries are also taking part. Besides the Kurdish language, some of the research will be presented in English, Arabic, Persian, and Turkish,” he said.

Hawrami noted that all papers will be published in a book to be distributed during the conference, and more than 60 international guests specializing in genocide studies have been invited. He added that four golden awards will be granted to Kurdish and international figures who have contributed to recognition of and advocacy against genocides committed against the Kurds.

The first scientific conference on the Kurdish genocide was held in 2023, focusing only on literature and art. This year’s gathering expands to include media, with international participation and the preparation of proposals and recommendations at its conclusion.

The genocide of the Kurds in Iraq reached its most devastating point during the late 1980s under Saddam Hussein’s regime. The Anfal campaign of 1988 systematically targeted Kurdish civilians, resulting in the deaths of an estimated 50,000 to over 180,000 people, widespread use of chemical weapons, and the destruction of thousands of villages.

One of the most infamous atrocities was the Halabja chemical attack in March 1988, which killed between 3,200 and 5,000 people and injured thousands more. Scholars and international bodies, including the International Association of Genocide Scholars, have acknowledged multiple genocidal campaigns against Kurds—spanning forced deportations, mass killings, and chemical warfare.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/892335

[Anthea]

Peshmerga Unification Nears

Kurdistan’s Ministry of Peshmerga announced on Tuesday that the unification of its forces has entered the final stage, with structural reforms progressing and full salary payments set to be transferred through the digital “MyAccount” system within two months

Osman Resha, spokesperson for the ministry, told Kurdistan 24 that “the unification of the Peshmerga forces has reached its final stage, and the number of divisions has been completed. Soon, the two regional commands of the first and second Peshmerga force zones will be established, and the final results will be submitted to the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Council of Ministers.”

He credited Prime Minister Masrour Barzani’s directives for supporting the integration process, while noting the cooperation of Unit 80 and Unit 70 commands in facilitating consolidation. “The directives of Masrour Barzani, the Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, to the Ministry of Peshmerga have been helpful and supportive in our efforts to unify the forces,” Resha said.

On the reform front, the ministry has made significant progress in financial accountability. Resha said the General Directorate of Military Accounting is leading the implementation of the MyAccount system, which allows Peshmerga personnel and officers to receive salaries digitally.

“The largest number of Peshmerga and officers are receiving their salaries through ‘MyAccount.’ It is also scheduled that within the next two months, the entire Peshmerga force will have their salaries transferred to their ‘MyAccount,’” he said.

The Peshmerga, historically divided along party lines, including forces loyal to the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, have long faced challenges in creating a unified command structure.

Analysts say the ongoing reforms aim to strengthen coordination, improve operational readiness, and modernize administrative systems, enabling the KRG to better respond to regional security threats and maintain stability in northern Iraq.

Resha confirmed that US assistance to the Peshmerga continues, including training, advisory support, and equipment provision. A new assistance agreement is expected in the coming years, reinforcing a partnership that has been critical in operations against ISIS and in maintaining the Kurdistan Region’s security. Experts note that the unification and modernization efforts are essential for professionalizing the Peshmerga while preserving the force’s legacy as a regional defensive backbone.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/892443

[Anthea]

Kurdistan Sees Investment
Boom Under Ninth Cabinet

The Kurdistan Region has experienced a significant surge in investment projects, with nearly half of all approved projects since 2006 receiving their licenses under the current ninth cabinet

This unprecedented growth is attributed to new facilitations for investors and the direct oversight of Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.

Mohammed Shukri, head of the Kurdistan Regional Government's Investment Board, told Kurdistan 24 on Wednesday, that "the investment process in the ninth cabinet has witnessed major changes due to Prime Minister Masrour Barzani's oversight and follow-up on all projects."

Shukri detailed the impressive figures, stating, "From 2006 to 2025, investment licenses have been granted to 1,540 projects in the Kurdistan Region. A remarkable 700 of these, approximately 45.5% of the total, were approved during the ninth cabinet's tenure."

He highlighted the government's commitment to creating a favorable investment climate, noting that "the government in this cabinet has provided the most facilitations, which did not exist before, such as not collecting fees. These facilitations are reasons for increased investment in the Kurdistan Region."

The head of the Investment Board emphasized the crucial role of local investors in the region's development, particularly in key sectors.

"The role of Kurdistan's investors has a direct impact on the revitalization and reconstruction of Kurdistan, especially in the fields of agriculture, industry, and construction," Shukri stated.

He added that domestic production has seen a substantial increase, capable of meeting internal demands and paving the way for exports.

Agriculture, including food security and wheat marketing for farmers, along with industrial and construction sectors, remain top priorities for the Kurdistan Regional Government. Shukri proudly mentioned that essential construction materials like rebar and cement are now being produced within the Kurdistan Region.

Furthermore, Shukri underscored the importance of attracting foreign investors. He attributed this success to enhanced coordination outside Kurdistan and active participation in economic forums, which "have been reasons for investors from outside Kurdistan to come and invest millions of dollars."

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/893102

[Anthea]

Kurdish Unity Essential to Safeguard
Achievements in Baghdad

The Head of Kurdistan's Government (KRG) Representation in Baghdad, Fars Issa, stressed that unity among Kurdish parties is essential to resolving long-standing disputes between Erbil and Baghdad, pointing to what he described as a “mentality problem” within the federal government

“Our biggest problem with Baghdad is mentality. They want to make decisions, and we should only implement them,” Issa said in remarks on Saturday. “The best solution is for the Kurds to be united. Most of the past achievements in Baghdad were made through consensus.”

Issa criticized Baghdad’s centralized approach, saying it undermines the federal and democratic principles enshrined in the Iraqi constitution. “They have come to the conclusion that the Kurdistan Region has moved forward, and they do not trust a federal and democratic country,” he added.

The KRG envoy emphasized that Kurdish factions must work together when negotiating with Baghdad. “The Kurdistan Regional Government has tried to prevent the problems of the Region from reaching Baghdad, but all factions should act collectively, not individually.”

On the contentious oil issue, Issa revealed that while an agreement had been reached between Erbil and Baghdad to draft an oil and gas law, Iraq later backtracked. “In June, we held a meeting and decided to hand over the available oil to Baghdad in early July. We informed them, but Iraq refused, citing technical problems,” he said.

Issa further accused certain parties in Iraq of deliberately obstructing a settlement, even linking recent drone attacks on Kurdistan Region oil facilities to these efforts. “Some parties do not want an agreement between Erbil and Baghdad. Those who directed drones at us did so to ensure the problems persist. Their identity is clear,” he noted.

Despite the challenges, Issa underlined that international actors prefer disputes between the Kurdistan Region and Baghdad to be resolved. “The countries are not in favor of continued tensions. They are trying to help, but if we are united in Baghdad, the problems will be better resolved,” he said.

He concluded by reiterating that Kurdish unity remains the key to safeguarding the Region’s constitutional rights and achievements. “Kurdish unity will be a decisive factor in fully resolving the issues, because in Iraq they believe that the more they give to the Kurdistan Region, the stronger our position becomes.”

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/893351

Somebody arrest the Traitor Bafel Talabani, he committed TREASON why is he not in prison???

[Anthea]

KRG Urges Implementation of
Article 140 and Sinjar Agreement

Kurdistan Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed on Monday stressed the need to implement Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution and the 2020 Sinjar agreement, describing them as essential for justice, stability, and the safe return of displaced communities

Speaking at the inauguration of the Great Mosque of Noor and the churches of Tahira and Sa’a, where he represented the Kurdistan Government (KRG), Ahmed said terrorist crimes in Mosul, the Nineveh Plain, and Sinjar “will not break our people’s will to survive and coexist.”

The ceremony was attended by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, UN envoy Mohamed al-Hassan, a high-level UAE delegation, and several Iraqi ministers and officials.

“They targeted churches, committed massacres against Yezidis, and displaced Christians and all communities of Nineveh,” Ahmed said, while commending the sacrifices of Iraqi forces, including the Peshmerga. “The Peshmerga stood on the front lines and opened the gates of liberation of Mosul to the federal forces,” he added.

Ahmed emphasized that “what unites us is much greater than what separates us,” urging the swift implementation of the Sinjar agreement to enable the return of more than 300,000 displaced Yezidis to their homes “with respect and dignity.” He further noted that Article 140 is vital to addressing long-standing disputes, reversing past injustices, and strengthening brotherhood among Iraq’s diverse communities.

Meanwhile, Kurdish farmers in Kirkuk have renewed calls for political unity to resist what they describe as systematic land dispossession and marginalization. Farmers accuse Arab settlers, backed by state security forces, of seizing lands in villages such as Tapa Sawz, despite court rulings affirming Kurdish ownership. They also face legal intimidation, arrest warrants, and restrictions on cultivating their farmlands

The theft has deep roots in Saddam Hussein’s Arabization campaign of the 1970s and 1980s, which forcibly displaced Kurds and resettled Arabs in their lands. Article 140, adopted in Iraq’s 2005 Constitution, was designed to reverse those policies through a three-stage process of normalization, a census, and a referendum on the disputed territories’ status. The deadline for implementation was December 2007, but successive Iraqi governments have failed to enforce it, leaving the issue unresolved and tensions simmering.

The Sinjar agreement, signed in October 2020 between Baghdad and the KRG with UN backing, aimed to stabilize Sinjar following ISIS’s defeat. It called for joint administration between Baghdad and Erbil, removal of unauthorized armed groups, and reconstruction to facilitate the return of displaced Yezidis.

However, progress has been slow due to resistance from armed factions such as the Sinjar Resistance Units (YBŞ), political rivalries, and lack of federal funding, leaving tens of thousands of families unable to return

Yezidi leaders and human rights groups say the failure to implement the deal has prolonged the suffering of survivors of ISIS atrocities, many of whom remain in displacement camps more than a decade after the group’s rise. Kurdish officials argue that without meaningful action on Article 140 and the Sinjar agreement, disputed territories will remain flashpoints of instability.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/893522

[Anthea]

PM Barzani, New CENTCOM Commander
Discuss Peshmerga Unification

Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani on Thursday received Admiral Brad Cooper, the newly appointed Commander of the United States Central Command (CENTCOM), in Erbil, congratulating him on his new post and stressing the importance of continued cooperation

Prime Minister Barzani expressed appreciation for Washington’s support to the Kurdistan Region, particularly in the ongoing efforts to unify the Peshmerga forces under a single command. He also welcomed General Kevin Lambert, who took over in July as Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve (CJTF-OIR), the international coalition against ISIS.

The meeting focused on sustaining support for the Peshmerga, reviewing Iraq’s security landscape, and coordinating efforts against ISIS remnants. Both sides also exchanged views on regional developments, including the situation in neighboring Syria.

Admiral Cooper reaffirmed the Kurdistan Region’s role as a “key ally and partner” of the United States in the Middle East and reiterated Washington’s commitment to strengthening the security and stability of the Region.

The United States maintains several hundred troops in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region as part of the anti-ISIS coalition, providing training, intelligence, and air support to Iraqi and Kurdish forces. Despite the group’s territorial defeat in 2017, ISIS sleeper cells remain active, particularly in disputed territories between Baghdad and Erbil, where joint coordination has often been limited.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/893619

[Anthea]

Kurdish-language university dispute

Kurdistan Government (KRG) said on Wednesday that the dispute over the usage of Kurdish language in universities of Iraq’s stolen territories remains unresolved and warned it may turn to the Iraqi Federal Supreme Court if the issue is not addressed

The General Board for Kurdistani Areas Outside the Region said the issue “has still not been resolved and the obstacles remain as they are, especially for law students and those subjects that have ministerial examinations.”

The board, an official body of the KRG that oversees administrative and political affairs in territories disputed between Erbil and Baghdad, warned that if the matter persists and Article 4 of the constitution is not upheld, it will resort to the Federal Court.

Article 4 of the constitution establishes Arabic and Kurdish as Iraq’s official languages and guarantees the right of Iraqis to be educated in their mother tongue, including Kurdish,Turkmen, Syriac, and Armenian.

In July, Iraq's higher education ministry sent a letter to universities and institutes in Kirkuk, Nineveh, and Diyala provinces, instructing that all teaching and examinations must be in Arabic or English, depending on specializations, and not Kurdish.

The three provinces are among the stolen territories between Erbil and Baghdad, falling under Article 140 of the constitution.

Following the fall of Saddam Hussein’s regime, Iraq adopted Article 140 of the constitution to reverse the Baath-era policy of Arabization in disputed Kurdish-populated areas in the provinces of Nineveh, Salahaddin, Kirkuk, and Diyala

The board said it will “continue our efforts so that Article 4 of the constitution and our students' issue can be resolved and the problems facing the Kurdish language as the second-most widely used language can be removed.”

It also urged Kurdish officials in Baghdad “to intensify their efforts” to ensure Kurdish students can answer exam questions in their mother tongue and receive “necessary translation for clarifying lessons.”

Kurdish lawmakers in the Iraqi parliament strongly criticized the higher education ministry’s decision at the time.

Iraq’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research is led by Naim al-Aboudi, a senior figure in the Iran-aligned Asaib Ahl al-Haq movement.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/middleeast/iraq/030920251