We are closely following today’s political and security developments in Baghdad and several other parts of the country with deep concern. We call on all parties to exert maximum restraint and not allow the situation to escalate further beyond control.

Peaceful demonstrations are a protected constitutional right, but the tensions and suspension of state institutions will not solve any problems as it will complicate the situation further. The dignity of state institutions must be upheld and their duties and works must not be obstructed.

The security forces should also deal with the situation with the utmost vigilance and not allow the demonstrations and incidents to cause further deterioration of the security situation and lead to casualties among Iraqis.

The situation in the country requires the utmost wisdom, a return to logic, the start of a national and responsible dialogue and the cooperation of all sides in order to surpass this difficult situation and avoid further escalation.

We reiterate that the Kurdistan Region will as always help bring about solutions and understanding among Iraqi parties, and therefore we invite all Iraqi forces and parties to come to meet in Erbil and start a serious dialogue to surpass the situation.

Nechirvan Barzani
The President of the Kurdistan Region