Kurdistan Region President said that the responsibility for the recent unrest in the country falls on those who have monopolized power in Baghdad, and dismissed allegations that the Kurds are to be blamed for the current situation.

“Many people would bear witness that I have long warned about the situation heading toward the unknown because of the wrong policies of those who have monopolized power in Baghdad,” said the President in a statement issued today.

The President reiterated that there is a special relationship between the Kurds and Shiites. The President said,"Some are trying to create a wedge between the Kurds and Shiites and put the blame on the Kurds for the recent events. We distinguish between terrorism and the legitimate demands of the Sunni community. And we are ready to work with both Sunnis and Shiites to confront terrorists. But we would never join a sectarian war under the pretext of fighting terrorism. This situation will not go away with military action alone. The reasons behind this must be addressed and the political process must be restored on the right direction. Then defeating terrorists will be much easier.”