KRG strengthening anti-ISIS efforts with Iraq

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – The Kurdistan Region Ministry of Peshmerga is developing a joint plan in coordination with Iraq's federal government to ramp up efforts to eliminate ISIS cells in the disputed territories.

The decision was made during a Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Council of Ministers meeting chaired by Prime Minister Masrour Barzani.

"Peshmerga Minister Shorish Ismail and Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed presented a report on the recent steps regarding coordination and cooperation between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the Federal Government [of Iraq] regarding the formation of a joint force, providing the needs of the Peshmerga, and developing a joint plan to address ISIS terrorist attacks," a statement on the KRG website read.

Ismail also highlighted the ongoing efforts to unify the region's Peshmerga forces as part of the ministry's reform project.

The Council of Ministers "stressed the importance of continuing to strengthen coordination with the federal government, empowering the ranks of the Peshmerga forces, and continuing to organize all its units within the framework of the Ministry of Peshmerga."

The meeting continued with the health and interior ministers outlining the government's efforts to combat the spread of the coronavirus as the hyper-infectious Omicron variant continues to spread.

The ministers affirmed the importance of people following health and safety guidelines, from wearing masks and social distancing when required to getting vaccinated to limit the spread of the virus.

Later, the council approved a Ministry of Electricity proposal to extend a 15 percent reduction on the price of electricity till March.

The body also approved a request to change the name of the Supreme Council for Women to the Supreme Council for Women and Development.