Khalida Khalil: Peshmerga - guardians of peace, anti-Kurdish rhetoric - fuel for political gain

Khalil countered these claims, asserting that the Peshmerga are not a sectarian force but rather an organized and essential entity in the fight against terrorism.

The spokesperson for the Barzani headquarters Khalida Khalil. (Photo: Kurdistan24)
The spokesperson for the Barzani headquarters Khalida Khalil. (Photo: Kurdistan24)

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The spokesperson for the Barzani headquarters has vehemently defended the Peshmerga forces against recent political opposition, underscoring their crucial role in safeguarding Kurdistan's security and stability.

Khalida Khalil's remarks come in response to former Iraqi Parliament Speaker Mohammed al-Halbousi's opposition to arming the Peshmerga. Al-Halbousi expressed concerns that weapons provided to local forces could potentially fuel internal conflicts.

Khalil countered these claims, asserting that the Peshmerga are not a sectarian force but rather an organized and essential entity in the fight against terrorism.

She highlighted their significant sacrifices in combating ISIS and emphasized that the Peshmerga are a symbol of security, stability, and peace in the region.

This controversy unfolds against the backdrop of a power struggle within the Iraqi Parliament, where the speaker's position remains vacant due to political divisions.

Observers suggest that al-Halbousi's stance against the Peshmerga is a political maneuver to garner support from anti-Kurdish factions and secure the acting speaker position for his party.

Khalil criticized such political tactics, highlighting that anti-Kurdish sentiment has become a tool for politicians seeking positions and personal gains.

She underscored the Peshmerga's legitimacy, referencing Article 121 of the Iraqi constitution, which recognizes them as an official force and guardian of the constitution.

This ongoing debate sheds light on the complex political landscape in Iraq, where the role and armament of the Peshmerga forces remain contentious issues amid broader discussions about Kurdish autonomy and security.

The Sunni community's inability to agree on a candidate for speaker of parliament since November has further complicated the situation, allowing Shiite factions to exert influence and pass legislation.

The contest for the presidency of the Iraqi parliament has intensified between Saleem Isawi and Mahmoud al-Mashhadani after the withdrawal of Shaalan al-Karim.