PM Barzani Attends Funeral of Civilian Victims in Erbil, Urges End to Attacks

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, on Tuesday attended the funeral ceremony for two couples killed in Zargazawi village in Erbil province, as grief spread across the Region following the deadly incident.

The prime minister extended his condolences and expressed deep sympathy to the families and relatives of the victims, describing the killings as a tragedy that has saddened the entire Kurdistan Region. He also conveyed condolences on behalf of President Masoud Barzani and the people of Kurdistan.

Speaking at a press conference, the prime minister said that innocent civilians had once again come under an unjustified attack. “We thank all the people of the Kurdistan Region for their patience and support,” Barzani stated. “We hope this war and tension will come to an end, allowing our people to achieve their long-awaited aspirations.”

Addressing the continuation of attacks and the position of the Iraqi federal government, Barzani stated that no practical steps had been taken to stop the assaults targeting the Region. He emphasized that a significant responsibility rests with the federal authorities to prevent such acts and hold the perpetrators accountable.

“We have communicated with all parties in the international community, as well as our allies and friends,” he said, noting that they have reaffirmed their support for the Kurdistan Region and its citizens. “I hope limits can be placed on these assaults.”

The prime minister reiterated that there is no justification for the continuation of attacks, particularly those carried out by Iran. He stated that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has engaged with the Iranian side, emphasizing that the Kurdistan Region is not part of the conflict and poses no threat to any party. He added that those responsible for targeting civilians will be held accountable "before God and their conscience."

On coordination with Baghdad, the prime minister said joint committees had been formed and that the KRG had fulfilled its responsibilities. However, he noted that other parties had not acted at the required level, either unable or unwilling to confront those behind the attacks.

Barzani stressed that authorities in the Region had made every possible diplomatic effort to stop the attacks, maintaining communication with all sides. Despite these efforts, he said, no concrete steps had been taken by those in power to prevent further violence.

Highlighting the broader security situation, he said attacks were occurring across multiple areas of the Kurdistan Region, adding that while local capabilities are limited, all parties must remain vigilant and cooperate to ensure protection.

Regarding the armed groups involved in the attacks, Barzani said the parties responsible are widely known and continue to operate freely. He criticized the federal government for failing to act decisively, stating that ultimate responsibility rests with Baghdad, whether due to inability or unwillingness.

Concluding his remarks, the prime minister emphasized that while the loss of life cannot be compensated, the KRG would provide support to affected families and work to compensate for material damages to the best of its ability. He reaffirmed the Region’s commitment to continue on the path of the martyrs in pursuit of freedom, dignity, and the protection of its land.