President Barzani visits Zakho Citadel and city corniche, praises its beauty and prosperity

ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) — President Masoud Barzani on Friday evening, Oct. 31, 2025, visited the old market in the city of Zakho, and from there went up to the ancient Zakho Citadel (Qishla Zakho), before inspecting the city’s corniche.

The Qishla Zakho dates back more than 1,120 years. During the former regime, the site was used for torturing and harming civilians. The Kurdistan Regional Government has since restored the citadel, preserving its cultural character and transforming it into a tourist landmark that now attracts thousands of visitors to Zakho.

President Barzani reaffirmed that Zakho is our heart and soul, and this city has made many sacrifices for the freedom of Kurdistan and in the war against ISIS terrorists; therefore, we consider ourselves indebted to it, and it is our duty to serve Zakho and all of Kurdistan without distinction.

As part of his visit to the Badinan region, President Masoud Barzani met with various strata, segments, and dignitaries of the Zakho Independent Administration in the city of Zakho.

During the meeting, President Barzani delivered a speech to the attendees and reaffirmed that Zakho is our heart and soul, and this city has made many sacrifices for the freedom of Kurdistan and in the war against ISIS terrorists; therefore, we consider ourselves indebted to it, and it is our duty to serve Zakho and all of Kurdistan without distinction.

President Barzani stated: "What has been done for Zakho is gratifying, but still more service must be provided. The transformation that Zakho has undergone compared to two years ago is clearly visible."

Afterward, the President visited Sbi village, where he viewed the city of Zakho from its surrounding highlands, and met with several visitors and citizens, taking commemorative photos with them.