Kurdistan Prime Minister Honors Victims of 1987 Chemical Attack
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani of the Kurdistan Region took to X on Tuesday to commemorate the victims of a heinous chemical attack perpetrated by the former Ba’athist regime. The attack, which occurred 37 years ago on April 16, 1987, targeted the civilian populations of Balisan, Sheikh Wasanan, and Koshnawati Valley, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 265 lives.
In a solemn post on X, Prime Minister Barzani honored the memory of those who perished in the horrific chemical assault. He emphasized the significance of remembering the victims and the atrocity they endured at the hands of the former regime. The commemoration coincides with the anniversary of one of the darkest chapters in the history of the Kurdistan Region.
Balisan
— Masrour Barzani (@masrourbarzani) April 16, 2024
Sheikh Wasanan
Koshnawati Valley
Today marks 37 years since the chemical attacks.
We honor the victims. pic.twitter.com/e7AAAz3ugT
The chemical attack, carried out by the Ba’athist regime, left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of the Kurdish people. Its brutality serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed against innocent civilians during that period of oppression.
Earlier in the day, President Masoud Barzani, leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), also paid tribute to the victims of the chemical attack. His acknowledgment underscores the unity among Kurdish leaders in honoring the memory of those who suffered.
As Kurdistan continues its journey towards peace and prosperity, the remembrance of past injustices remains integral to preserving the region's history and ensuring that such atrocities are never repeated.
The commemoration of the chemical attack serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the Kurdish people in the face of adversity. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani's tribute reflects a commitment to justice and remembrance for the victims, as Kurdistan seeks to build a future free from the shadows of its painful past.