In a distressing turn of events at the Iranian border areas, at least eight Kurdish Kolbers sustained injuries as they were caught in gunfire by Iranian border patrol forces. The incident, reported by the Hengaw Organization for Human Rights on Tuesday, sheds light on the perilous conditions faced by these individuals who engage in cross-border cargo transportation.

The wounded Kolbers have been identified as Mohammed Mahmudi, Mohammed Yousifi, Ihsan Nazari, Omed Shamsi, Yasin, Saman Rostami, with the identities of the other two individuals remaining undisclosed. Originating from the cities of Dalaho, Jwanro, Salasi Bawajani, Pawa, and Nawsood, these Kolbers hail from Iranian Kurdistan, an area marked by limited economic opportunities and widespread poverty.

Kolbers, known for their role as cross-border cargo carriers, shoulder the burden of transporting merchandise on foot across the border that demarcates the Islamic Republic of Iran from neighboring nations such as Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.

The recent escalation in violence against Kurdish Kolbers is alarming, as it follows another incident on Monday where three more Kolbers were wounded in the Hangazhall and Mariwan area, once again due to Iranian border patrol forces opening fire on them.

The situation underscores the urgent need for attention to the plight of Kurdish Kolbers, who risk their lives daily in pursuit of livelihood amidst challenging circumstances. As calls for investigation and accountability mount, concerns regarding the safety and rights of Kolbers persist, demanding swift action to address the escalating tensions and ensure the protection of vulnerable communities in the region.