President of the Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, commemorated the forty-first anniversary of the Barzani Anfal campaign, emphasizing that the aim was to break the Kurdish people's will for freedom. However, he asserted, it has instead become a black mark on the foreheads of those who carried out the atrocities.

In a statement from the Presidency of the Kurdistan Region, Barzani solemnly remembered the eight thousand men, young and old, from the Barzani tribe who were disappeared between July 31 and mid-August 1983. These individuals were victims of a brutal campaign launched by the Iraqi regime at the time against forced settlements in Erbil, leading to their mass execution.

"Peace to their pure souls," Barzani said, as he bowed in honor and respect to the victims and their families. He underscored that the campaign, aimed at breaking the Kurdish aspiration for freedom, has only fueled the Kurdish liberation movement with greater strength and determination to fight against oppression and dictatorship.

Barzani praised the resilience of the Barzani mothers and the community, who stood tall despite the pain and repercussions of the tragedy. He highlighted their ability to raise a loyal and competent generation with pride and dignity.

"I salute all the mothers, wives, and sisters who faced immense hardship with dignity and did not surrender. I kiss their hands," Barzani added.

He extended his gratitude to those who assisted the Barzani victims during those difficult times, affirming that their services and loyalty will never be forgotten.

Barzani reaffirmed the commitment to continue efforts to recognize the Barzani Anfal and other tragedies that befell the Kurdish people as acts of genocide on an international level. He also stressed the importance of unity, harmony, and cohesion among Kurdistan’s political parties and components, and the need to compensate the families of the Anfal victims.

"Salute to the memory of all the martyrs of Kurdistan," Barzani concluded.