President Masoud Barzani: A Tribute to the Courage and Sacrifice of the Kurdish Uprising

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – On the 34th anniversary of the historic Kurdish uprising, President Masoud Barzani extended his warmest congratulations to the families of the martyrs, the courageous Peshmerga, and all freedom fighters and patriots across Kurdistan.

In his statement, President Barzani emphasized that the uprising stands as one of the most significant achievements in Kurdistan’s history. He attributed its success to the unwavering will for freedom among the Kurdish people, the bravery of the Peshmerga forces, and the unity among all factions of the Kurdish liberation movement.

“The uprising was a clear message against oppression and tyranny, proving that the people of Kurdistan are alive and determined to break free from the chains of injustice despite all forms of suppression and intimidation,” Barzani stated. He further underscored that the fate of occupation and despotism is inevitable collapse, while the will and determination of the Kurdish people will always prevail.

As Kurdistan commemorates this momentous occasion, Barzani reaffirmed the uprising’s enduring values—peace, brotherhood, and coexistence. He paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for Kurdistan’s freedom and dignity, saluting their legacy as a guiding light for future generations.

The 1991 Kurdish Uprising: A Defining Moment

The Kurdish uprising of March 1991 marked a turning point in the region’s history. In the wake of the Gulf War and amid rising tensions with the Iraqi regime, the people of Kurdistan took to the streets in mass protests, reclaiming control over their cities and villages from Saddam Hussein’s brutal rule. The revolt, driven by years of persecution and suffering under the Ba’athist dictatorship, ultimately led to the establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the region’s self-rule.

The uprising showcased the resilience of the Kurdish people, proving that even decades of oppression could not extinguish their aspirations for freedom and justice. It also set the foundation for Kurdistan’s democratic institutions, shaping its political and social landscape in the years that followed.

President Masoud Barzani: A Lifetime of Struggle for Kurdish Rights

President Masoud Barzani, a towering figure in Kurdish politics, has dedicated his life to the Kurdish liberation movement. Barzani was raised in a family deeply rooted in the fight for Kurdish rights. Following in the footsteps of his father, the legendary leader Mustafa Barzani, he joined the Peshmerga at a young age and became a key figure in the Kurdish resistance against successive Iraqi regimes.

Throughout his political career, Barzani played a crucial role in securing Kurdistan’s autonomy, engaging in decades of struggle against oppression. As President of the Kurdistan Region (2005-2017), he championed democratic governance, economic development, and the strengthening of Kurdistan’s international ties. His leadership during critical moments—including the fight against ISIS and efforts to secure greater recognition for Kurdistan—cemented his legacy as a steadfast defender of Kurdish rights.

A Timeless Message of Unity and Strength

As Kurdistan reflects on the sacrifices made during the 1991 uprising, Barzani’s words serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience that have defined the Kurdish people’s struggle. The uprising was not merely a revolt against tyranny; it was a declaration of the Kurdish people's unyielding spirit and their right to self-determination.

With the region facing ongoing challenges, the legacy of the uprising remains a source of inspiration, reinforcing the need for unity, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to freedom.