President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), Masoud Barzani, met with US Deputy Ambassador to Iraq and Chargé d’Affaires Daniel Rubenstein on Wednesday to discuss key political and security developments in Iraq and Syria. The discussions also covered the recent harassment of Kurdish farmers in Kirkuk, which has sparked widespread concern.

During the meeting, held in Salahaddin, the two sides addressed the Kurdistan Region’s situation, its relations with the Iraqi federal government, and the outcomes of the Imrali delegation’s visit to the Kurdistan Region, including discussions with Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).

Barzani Condemns Harassment of Kurdish Farmers

Barzani strongly criticized the recent actions against Kurdish farmers in Kirkuk, stating that such behavior reflects a “chauvinist mentality” reminiscent of past genocidal campaigns against the Kurdish people.

The controversy arose on Monday, February 17, when the Iraqi army prevented Kurdish farmers from accessing their lands in Shanagha and four other villages in Kirkuk’s Sargaran district. The move has been met with condemnation from Kurdish leaders, who view it as a violation of their rights.

In response to the incident, Barzani issued a statement highlighting the severity of the situation. “The scene of torturing Kurdish farmers and preventing them from returning to their lands reminds us of the Anfal, chemical attacks, and genocide of our people in the previous century,” he said. “Innocent Kurds are being treated unjustly in Kirkuk province, whose only crime is that they are Kurds and the original owners of their land.”

Call for Action from Iraqi Government

Barzani urged Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani to take immediate measures to prevent further violations. He called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the harassment, emphasizing the need for legal accountability.

He also commended the resilience of Kurdish farmers in the face of these challenges. “I congratulate the heroic Kurds who have resisted this oppression and aggression while defending their rights and demands,” he stated.

Commitment to Constitutional Principles

Barzani reaffirmed his stance on the importance of maintaining Iraq’s constitutional principles of partnership, balance, and consensus to ensure stability and protect the rights of all communities. He stressed that upholding these values is crucial in preventing further tensions and conflicts.

The meeting between Barzani and Rubenstein underscores the ongoing concerns over the treatment of Kurds in Iraq and the broader security dynamics in the region. Observers will be watching closely to see how the Iraqi government responds to the escalating tensions in Kirkuk.