President Nechirvan Barzani Honors Victims of Halabja Chemical Attack on 36th Anniversary
President Nechirvan Barzani of the Kurdistan Region delivered a poignant address today on the 36th anniversary of the Halabja chemical attack, paying tribute to the thousands of innocent lives lost in the heinous crime. His speech underscored the enduring significance of remembering the victims and honoring the sacrifices made by the Kurdish people in their pursuit of justice and freedom.
In his address, President Barzani reflected on the tragic events of March 16, 1988, when Halabja became the site of one of the deadliest chemical attacks in history. He solemnly commemorated the over 5,000 innocent souls who perished in the attack, as well as the countless others who suffered and continue to suffer from its devastating effects.
President Barzani emphasized that the Halabja massacre was not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader pattern of brutality inflicted upon the Kurdish people. He condemned the genocidal campaigns, including the notorious Anfal operations, and stressed the need for recognition of the legitimate rights of the Kurdish population.
له (٣٦)هه‌مين ساڵيادى مه‌رگه‌سات و تاوانى سامناكى كيميابارانكردنى هه‌ڵه‌بجه‌دا، سه‌رى ڕێز نه‌وازش بۆ گيانى پاكى زياتر له پێنج هه‌زار شه‌هيدى هه‌ڵه‌بجه و ته‌واوى شه‌هيدانى كوردستان داده‌نوێنين، به ڕێز و شكۆدارييه‌وه ياديان ده‌كه‌ينه‌وه، سڵاو بۆ خێزان و كه‌سوكاريان و بۆ هه… pic.twitter.com/PMvyiInMm2
— Nechirvan Barzani (@IKRPresident) March 16, 2024
The President called for comprehensive reparations to be made to the Halabja community and all victims of past atrocities, urging the Iraqi government to fulfill its obligations in delivering justice and support to those affected. He also highlighted the importance of international efforts to prevent such crimes from recurring.
Acknowledging the resilience and sacrifices of the Kurdish people, President Barzani affirmed the solemn duty of all citizens to safeguard the hard-won achievements of the Kurdistan Region. He urged unity in the face of adversity and emphasized the collective commitment to building a brighter and more secure future for the region.
As Kurdistan marks the 36th anniversary of the Halabja chemical attack, President Barzani's speech serves as a powerful reminder of the need to honor the memory of the victims and strive for a future free from violence and oppression.
