The U.S. Mission in Iraq condemns the recent murder of journalist Kawa Garmiany. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and colleagues.



We are deeply concerned about the circumstances of his assassination, particularly as Mr. Garmiany had in the past been threatened with violence because of the nature and focus of his work. We oppose any and all attempts to curb freedom of the press and intimidate the media.



We welcome the statements of condemnation of Kurdistan Regional Government officials, as well as their pledges to investigate the case. We call on the Kurdistan Regional Government and local authorities to hold the perpetrators of this heinous act.


Kawa Garmiani, who was working as a journalist for Awena News and was also the Editor-in-Chief of Rayal Magazine, a monthly political and social magazine published in Kalar and its surroundings, was gunned down in front of his own house on the late evening of Thursday, December 5, in the Kalar district, south of Sulaymaniah.