On October 22 our Peshmerga forces, supported by U.S. Special Operations Forces, carried out a rescue operation in Hawija to prevent the terrorist organization known as Islamic State (also called ISIS or ISIL) conducting a mass execution of hostages.

This courageous operation saved the lives of 69 individuals. Unfortunately, one US soldier was killed and four Peshmerga were injured.

On behalf of the Kurdistan Region and its people, I would like to express our heartfelt condolences to this courageous soldier’s family and friends. I also wish a quick recovery for the wounded Peshmerga.

We highly value the commitment of every brave Peshmerga and American soldier who made that complex mission possible. They risked their own lives so that others could live and be free. Thank you for your sacrifice.

We are grateful for American military, political and diplomatic support in our fight against Islamic State. With the support of our close allies, the United States and other Coalition Partners, we can overcome the threat to our way of life and freedom posed by terrorists who claim to act in the name of Islam.

The Kurdistan Regional Government is committed to protect all its people and territory including rescuing our Peshmerga who have been taken hostage. With resolve and direct support of our international Coalition Partners, we can defeat this terrorist organization.

Nechirvan Barzani
Prime Minister of the KRG