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Shafaq News
22-04-2025
- Politics
- Shafaq News
Kurdish Aspirations: From statehood dreams to the pursuit of peace
Shafaq News/ As geopolitical dynamics continue to shift across the Middle East, the Kurdish question is undergoing a notable transformation. Once defined by dreams of independence, the Kurdish narrative is increasingly centered on securing peace and preserving hard-won autonomy. A recent comprehensive report published by The National under the title 'The future of the Kurds: from dreams of independence to settling for peace' offers a timely and in-depth reflection on this shift. Across Iraq, Syria, Turkiye, and Iran — where Kurdish populations are spread — aspirations for a sovereign Kurdish state have often clashed with complex regional realities. But today, as The National notes, 'the Kurdish dream of independence [has] transform[ed] into one of peace.' This recalibration is rooted not in resignation but in pragmatism, driven by lessons learned from a century marked by conflict and fragmentation. In Iraq's Kurdistan Region, where Kurds have enjoyed a level of autonomy unmatched elsewhere, leaders are increasingly positioning themselves as advocates for regional stability. Speaking at the recent Sulaimani Forum, Kurdish President Nechirvan Barzani encapsulated this shift: 'The power of peace is greater than the power of all wars.' The National observes that this sentiment is now broadly shared across the Kurdish political spectrum — a marked contrast from the more assertive rhetoric that preceded the ill-fated 2017 independence referendum. That referendum, once seen as a potential watershed moment, ultimately triggered a harsh regional backlash and brought a sobering dose of reality. Since then, Baghdad has gradually reasserted authority through legal and political channels, eroding aspects of the Kurdistan Region's autonomy. As The National rightly points out, a series of supreme court rulings have tilted the balance of power away from Erbil, while ongoing internal divisions between the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) have further complicated the political landscape. Yet Kurdish leaders remain undeterred in their commitment to play a constructive role. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani emphasized this vision, telling The National, 'If we can play an effective role in mediating between the parties involved in regional hostilities and improving the security of the region, that would be a positive contribution.' President Nechirvan Barzani reinforced this outlook, asserting that 'the Kurds and the people of Kurdistan are inherently peaceful… whenever there has been a hint of peace, the people of Kurdistan embraced it with optimism.' The shift in tone and strategy is also linked to recent events in neighboring Syria. Following the collapse of the Al-Assad regime, the newly formed government in Damascus has clashed with the de facto autonomy long maintained by Kurdish groups in the northeast. The National highlights how Iraqi Kurds have expressed solidarity with their Syrian counterparts, offering political support and practical guidance. 'Our brothers and sisters in Syria can benefit from the Kurdistan Region's experiment,' Prime Minister Barzani said, pointing to the possibility of a decentralized governance model that could help preserve Kurdish rights without demanding outright independence. The idea of decentralization is now gaining traction as a realistic and peaceful path forward. Ilham Ahmed, co-chair of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), told The National that Syrian Kurds are not seeking statehood but rather constitutional guarantees for autonomy. 'What we are proposing now… is a model to be used in other areas,' she said, citing regions like Deraa, Idlib, and Suwayda as examples where localized self-administration has already taken root. She added that this proposal could offer a stable framework for post-conflict Syria, as long as it includes the rights of all communities. This renewed Kurdish approach is not limited to Syria. In Turkiye, a glimmer of hope emerged earlier this year when imprisoned PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan called for the group to disarm and disband. The National reports that this unprecedented move raised 'hopes of a renewed peace process' in a conflict that has cost more than 40,000 lives. Kurdish leaders in Iraq welcomed the announcement. 'Developments in Turkey aimed at fostering peace represent a significant historical opportunity. We wholeheartedly endorse and support these efforts,' President Barzani declared. Prime Minister Barzani echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that peace cannot be achieved unilaterally. He acknowledged the involvement of nationalist parties in Turkiye and stressed that dialogue must be mutual. Despite the announcement of a ceasefire, the framework for a lasting peace has yet to be defined. Still, the gesture was widely interpreted as a signal that regional actors — including Kurdish groups — are ready to pursue new strategies grounded in diplomacy rather than armed struggle. Even as Kurds across the region pivot toward peace, internal challenges remain. In Iraq, the long-delayed parliamentary elections held in October failed to produce a government. As The National points out, 'parties have yet to reach a consensus,' raising concerns that the stalemate could drag on until Iraq's general elections in November. While both the KDP and PUK participated in a high-level meeting during the Sulaimani Forum, no major breakthroughs were announced. Despite these complications, Kurdish leaders continue to stress the importance of unity — not just within the Kurdistan Region but across the broader Kurdish diaspora. 'The solution of the Kurdish issue in Syria is not easy,' admitted senior KDP official Hoshyar Zebari, 'but the Kurdistan Region [of Iraq] is ready to provide support in this regard.' His comment, quoted by The National, reflects a growing consensus that Kurdish interests are best served through cooperation and careful statecraft rather than unilateral moves. This emphasis on unity and peace is not merely rhetorical. As The National underscores, the Kurdish Region has become a model of governance and coexistence. 'We are one of the major partners in the Middle East,' said Rebar Ahmed, KRG Interior Minister, adding that Kurds have a duty to safeguard the rights of all communities. 'From the Kurdish perspective, we have to take care of the future of all the constituents here in the Middle East,' he said. In the background of all these developments lies the memory of a painful past: decades of persecution, cultural erasure, and military conflict. President Barzani, in remarks cited by The National, warned that 'the last century has unequivocally shown that the disregard and rejection of the rights of the Kurds and the people of Kurdistan have led to ongoing conflict, chaos, destruction, suffering, and stagnation in the region.' Today, with that history in mind, Kurdish leaders are turning the page — not by abandoning their identity or rights, but by recalibrating their goals in light of new realities. As The National insightfully concludes, the Kurdish focus is shifting from secession to stability, from maximalist demands to sustainable solutions. And in doing so, the Kurds may be charting a new course not just for themselves, but for the region as a whole.
The National
25-03-2025
- Politics
- The National
Kurds gain asylum in UK over threat from Iraqi Shiite militia
Two Iraqi Kurds have gained the right to remain in the UK after claiming they faced threats from the Popular Mobilisation Forces militia. The men, who have been granted anonymity, said they fled their homeland due to the fear of 'persecution' by the Shiite militia, also known as Hashd Al Shaabi. The network of mainly pro-Iran paramilitary units was formed to battle against ISIS in 2014, when Iraq's army collapsed, but has been accused of widespread human rights abuse. The men made separate asylum claims, which were initially rejected but the same judge has now overturned each case on appeal. In the first case, the immigration hearing was told that in June 2021 a group of ISIS fighters broke into one of the men's family farm and stole livestock, which he reported to Hashd Al Shaabi, but when members arrived to investigate they were ambushed by the extremists. A gun battle ensued in which three militia fighters were killed, along with the man's brother. The man, referred to in court documents by the initials AM, said Hashd Al Shaabi believed he had led them into an ambush and began to hunt him down. His mother was killed by the militia and he fears 'serious harm if he is returned to Iraq'. His claim was initially rejected by the judge as lacking credibility on the basis he had only assumed the armed men at his farm were ISIS fighters. They were wearing black clothes and face masks, and proclaimed 'Allahu akbar', but a judge insisted there was 'no reasonable explanation as to why they just did not tell him' they were from ISIS. In overturning the decision, Judge Peter Lewis said his colleague did 'not explain how she reached the decision as to what ISIS look like or say when greeting farmers in Iraq'. Judge Lewis said his colleague also claimed Hashd Al Shaabi 'would not have walked into an ambush'. The judge added: 'Given that ambushes are by definition a surprise, the judge gives no proper reason for dismissing the possibility of an ambush.' In the other case, the man known by the initials AA said he was at risk from the PMF because he refused to join the fight against ISIS, as well as his political activities as part of the Dakok Support Centre, a UK-based organisation that campaigns on human rights issues in Iraq. His account was initially dismissed as lacking credibility, but Judge Lewis again overruled on the grounds his colleague had accepted the man was politically active in the UK. The PMF was created in response to a fatwa by Iraq's highest Shiite authority, Ayatollah Ali Al Sistani. It was initially an umbrella organisation of about 70 predominantly Shiite armed groups, with up to 250,000 members. Groups linked to the PMF resumed attacks on US forces in 2019 when the war against ISIS was winding down, ending an uneasy alliance between coalition advisers helping the Iraqi army and government-funded militias. The US military launched 85 strikes against Tehran-backed militiamen in Iraq and Syria in 2024. At least 16 people were killed and 25 injured in Iraq, including civilians, the government in Baghdad said. The attacks were the first wave of retaliation ordered by US President Joe Biden for a drone attack that killed three US troops in Jordan on January 28. Iraq's parliament completed the first reading of new legislation on the PMF, containing 18 articles, on Monday. According to the draft seen by The National, it will keep the PMF under the command of Prime Minister, who's also the commander-in-chief for the armed forces, but as a parallel strong military force. The second reading will begin the process of debate and amendments, before the bill is put to a vote at the third reading.
The National
25-03-2025
- Politics
- The National
Iraq's Shiite militia threat leads two Kurds to gain UK asylum
Two Iraqi Kurds have gained the right to remain in the UK after claiming they faced threats from the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) militia. The men, who have been granted anonymity, said they fled their homeland due to the fear of 'persecution' by the Shiite militia, also known as Hashd Al Shaabi. The network of mainly pro-Iran paramilitary units was formed to battle against ISIS in 2014, when Iraq's army collapsed, but has been accused of widespread human rights abuse. The men made separate asylum claims, which were initially rejected but the same judge has now overturned each case on appeal. In the first case, the immigration hearing was told that in June 2021 a group of ISIS fighters broke into one of the men's family farm and stole livestock, which he reported to Hashd Al Shaabi, but when members arrived to investigate they were ambushed by the extremists. A gun battle ensued in which three militia fighters were killed, along with the man's brother. The man, referred to in court documents by the initials AM, said Hashd Al Shaabi believed he had led them into an ambush and began to hunt him down. His mother was killed by the militia and he fears 'serious harm if he is returned to Iraq'. His claim was initially rejected by the judge as lacking credibility on the basis he had only assumed the armed men at his farm were ISIS fighters. They were wearing black clothes and face masks, and proclaimed "Allahu akbar", but a judge insisted there was 'no reasonable explanation as to why they just did not tell him' they were from ISIS. In overturning the decision, judge Peter Lewis said his colleague did 'not explain how she reached the decision as to what ISIS look like or say when greeting farmers in Iraq'. Judge Lewis said his colleague also claimed Hashd Al Shaabi 'would not have walked into an ambush'. The judge added: 'Given that ambushes are by definition a surprise, the judge gives no proper reason for dismissing the possibility of an ambush." In the other case, the man known by the initials AA said he was at risk from the PMF because he refused to join the fight against ISIS, as well as his political activities as part of the Dakok Support Centre, a UK-based organisation that campaigns on human rights issues in Iraq. His account was initially dismissed as lacking credibility, but Judge Lewis again overruled on the grounds his colleague had accepted the man was politically active in the UK. The PMF was created in response to a fatwa by Iraq's highest Shiite authority, Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani. It was initially an umbrella organisation of about 70 predominantly Shiite armed groups, with up to 250,000 members. Groups linked to the PMF resumed attacks on US forces in 2019 when the war against ISIS was winding down, ending an uneasy alliance between coalition advisers helping the Iraqi army and government-funded militias. The US military launched 85 strikes against Tehran-backed militiamen in Iraq and Syria in 2024. At least 16 people were killed and 25 injured in Iraq, including civilians, the government in Baghdad said. The attacks were the first wave of retaliation ordered by US President Joe Biden for a drone attack that killed three US troops in Jordan on January 28. The first hearing of a contentious new law integrating the PMF into Iraq's armed forces was held in the parliament in Baghdad this week.
Shafaq News
20-03-2025
- General
- Shafaq News
Newroz in Kurdistan: Celebrations persist amid economic hardships
Shafaq News/ As Iraqi Kurds prepare to celebrate Newroz, the Kurdish New Year, financial hardships and salary delays are dampening the festive spirit across the Kurdistan Region. Despite these challenges, the holiday remains a cherished occasion that brings people together in a celebration of renewal, resistance, and cultural pride. A Celebration of Renewal and Freedom Newroz, observed on March 21, marks the arrival of spring and symbolizes new beginnings and the triumph of freedom over oppression. Rooted in ancient Mesopotamian traditions, it has been celebrated for over 5,000 years. For Kurds, it holds deep historical significance, particularly through the legend of Kawa the Blacksmith, who is said to have led a rebellion against a cruel tyrant, bringing light and justice to the people. The holiday is widely observed in Iraqi Kurdistan, Iran, Turkiye, and Syria, as well as among other cultures in Central Asia. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) designates it as a national holiday, granting three days off for celebrations. How Kurds Celebrate Newroz In the Kurdistan Region, Newroz is marked by gatherings, music, dancing, and traditional clothing. The most symbolic part of the celebration is lighting bonfires on the night of March 20, representing the victory of light over darkness. People wear colorful Kurdish attire—women in embroidered dresses and men in traditional baggy trousers—and take part in Dabke-style group dances. Families prepare special dishes, including dolma (stuffed grape leaves), biryani, and grilled meats, while picnics in the countryside are a key part of the festivities. With spring flowers blooming, parks and mountainsides become filled with families celebrating together, enjoying food, playing music, and dancing. Akre: The Heart of Newroz Festivities While all Kurdish cities and towns celebrate Newroz, Akre, in Duhok province, is considered the center of the most iconic celebrations. Each year, tens of thousands of people travel to Akre to take part in a breathtaking torchlit procession up the mountains. This tradition, deeply tied to Kurdish heritage, sees men and women carrying over 2,000 torches, illuminating the hills in a powerful display of unity and resilience. Visitors also enjoy fireworks, concerts, and cultural performances, making Akre's Newroz festival one of the most anticipated events of the year. Economic Hardships Cast a Shadow This year, however, economic difficulties in the Kurdistan Region are affecting the scale of celebrations. Many government employees have faced delayed salary payments, making it difficult for families to afford new clothes and special meals, both essential parts of the holiday. The financial strain has also limited the ability of some local governments to organize large-scale events. Adding to the subdued mood, Newroz coincides with Ramadan, a holy month of fasting for Muslims. This has led to adjustments in celebration times, with many opting for smaller, family-focused gatherings rather than all-day public events. Newroz: A Tradition That Endures Despite these challenges, Newroz remains a deeply cherished occasion that unites Kurds in celebrating their history, identity, and resilience. Recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and declared an international holiday by the United Nations in 2010, Newroz continues to be a powerful symbol of hope and cultural pride. Even in difficult times, the flames of Newroz bonfires will burn brightly across Kurdistan, reminding people of their enduring strength and the promise of a better future.
Yahoo
12-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Illegal migrant can stay in UK because his ID was stolen
An illegal Iraqi Kurd migrant has been allowed to stay in Britain because his ID documents were stolen by the 'agent' who got him into the UK. The 31-year-old, who has not been named, has lost contact with his family since coming to Britain in 2016. Upper tribunal judge Sarah Pinder said this meant that he could not expect any family members to help him retrieve the necessary identity documents to be able to return to Iraq. Nor was he likely to be able to get new ID papers from the Iraq embassy in London. Returning to Iraq without documents to prove his identity would put him in danger because of the tough border controls and security checks operated by the state. Judge Pinder ruled that this would put the migrant at risk of treatment that would breach his human rights under Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which states that 'no one shall be subjected to torture or to inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment in all circumstances'. She granted the Iraqi Kurd's appeal against his deportation by the Home Office, allowing him to remain in the UK 'on humanitarian protection grounds'. The disclosure, in court documents, sets a potential precedent for Channel migrants with data showing as few as one in 50 arrive with passports, often after being told by people smugglers to destroy them. Iraq was one of the top seven nations for Channel crossings last year with 2,064 reaching the UK in small boats. Labour has negotiated a new returns agreement with Iraq to swiftly deport illegal migrants who reach the UK from the country. It is part of a security pact for sharing intelligence and co-operation to crack down on people-smuggling gangs, which include many led by Iraqi Kurds. The case is the latest example exposed by The Telegraph where illegal migrants or convicted foreign criminals have used human rights laws to remain in the UK or halt their deportations. They include an Albanian criminal who avoided deportation after claiming his son had an aversion to foreign chicken nuggets, and a Pakistani paedophile who was jailed for child sex offences but escaped removal from the UK as it would be 'unduly harsh' on his own children. Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said the ruling was 'ludicrous'. 'We cannot allow an illegal immigrant to stay in the UK simply because he claims to have lost his papers – anyone could make this claim. The Government should simply ask the Iraqi embassy to issue the new relevant travel documents,' he said. 'Once again, we see a decision by an immigration judge that totally defies common sense. It is time judges in the immigration tribunal started applying some common sense and ensuring illegal immigrants with no right to be here are actually removed, rather than being allowed to stay on spurious or flimsy grounds.' The court was told the Iraqi Kurd was 10 when he was taken in by his uncle after his mother remarried. She is believed to have moved to Iran. In the eight years since he came to Britain, he had lost contact with his uncle. Efforts to track him down by the Red Cross, and an Iranian friend who travelled to Iraq, had failed. 'I do not accept that the appellant can resort to his family members in order to assist him with retrieving any existing identity documents nor with otherwise meeting and/or vouching for him at any arrival in the Iraqi Kurdish Region (IKR) to permit his entry into the IKR,' said Judge Pinder. She also said the 'level of information' provided by the Iraqi embassy was 'not sufficient for me to find that the appellant would be likely to secure identity documentation'. Judge Pinder concluded: 'Thus, I am satisfied that the appellant is reasonably unlikely to secure an Iraqi identity document, whether in the UK or on arrival in the IKR, which would permit him to enter the IKR and to travel internally without subjecting him to treatment, contrary to Article 3 ECHR.' Judge Pinder has made controversial rulings including allowing a Zimbabwean paedophile to stay in Britain because he would face 'hostility' in his home country. She was also one of two judges to declare that a Sudanese asylum seeker was a child despite the Home Office saying he was at least 23 with a receding hairline. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
