Erbil, Kurdistan Region - In a landmark development, the cities of Erbil and Baghdad have forged a groundbreaking partnership to address the escalating issue of drug trafficking. Brigadier General Ahmad Al-Zarkani, the Director-General of Drug Control at the Federal Ministry of Interior, announced the formation of a joint team aimed at combating the narcotics trade, marking the first-ever collaborative effort of this nature in Iraq's history.

During a press briefing on Sunday, Al-Zarkani highlighted the significant commitment of both governments to tackle the drug problem. He conveyed that the Prime Minister, also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has expressed deep concern about the drug issue. Al-Zarkani provided statistics indicating progress, stating that 500 kilograms of narcotics were seized in 2021, with the figure escalating to 4 tons in the past year of 2023. Additionally, he noted legal actions taken against drug offenders, such as death sentences handed down to three individuals in 2022 and 50 drug traffickers in 2023.

A noteworthy aspect of this collaborative effort is the unprecedented level of coordination between the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) in combating drug-related activities. Al-Zarkani emphasized that, for the first time in Iraq's history, a highly coordinated team has been established, symbolizing a united front against the drug trade and representing the entire nation.

This joint initiative is seen as a significant step forward in addressing the challenges posed by drug trafficking in Iraq. Observers believe that it will not only enhance the overall anti-drug efforts within the country but also strengthen cooperation between the federal government and the KRG. The collaboration aims to bridge security gaps between Erbil and Baghdad, unify efforts to combat drug trafficking, facilitate the exchange of critical information and investigations, and send a resounding message to those involved in illicit drug activities.

The historic collaboration underscores the commitment of both regions to tackle shared challenges collectively, setting a precedent for increased cooperation on matters of national importance. As Iraq grapples with the rising threat of drug trafficking, this united front is poised to make a significant impact in curbing the illicit trade and promoting a safer, drug-free society.