PM Masrour Barzani Attends February 1st Martyrs Memorial Ceremony in Erbil
The ceremony commemorates the victims of the twin suicide bombings that targeted the headquarters of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) in 2004.
Feb. 1, 2025
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan Region’s Prime Minister Masrour Barzani participated in a solemn memorial ceremony in Erbil on Saturday, honoring the martyrs of the February 1st attacks, which marked one of the most tragic events in the modern history of the Kurdistan Region.
The ceremony commemorates the victims of the twin suicide bombings that targeted the headquarters of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) in 2004.
The attacks, which occurred on the first day of Eid al-Adha, claimed the lives of 103 people, including high-ranking government and party officials, and left many others wounded.
A Targeted Attack on Unity and Stability
The coordinated suicide bombings struck at a pivotal moment for Kurdistan.
In 2004, the KDP and PUK had entered the implementation phase of a peace process aimed at unifying the region’s dual administrations, fostering political cooperation, and strengthening self-governance.
The attacks sought to derail this process by inciting division and destabilizing the progress made.
However, instead of sowing discord, the tragedy galvanized unity among the people of Kurdistan. Officials from both parties reaffirmed their commitment to political reconciliation and governance reform.
Rather than succumbing to fear and fragmentation, the Kurdistan Region intensified efforts to consolidate its administration and reinforce stability.
Legacy of Resilience and Remembrance
The commemoration not only honored the fallen but also underscored the enduring resilience of Kurdistan’s people.
Prime Minister Barzani’s presence at the memorial highlights the government’s unwavering dedication to preserving the memory of the martyrs and ensuring that their sacrifices are not forgotten.
As Kurdistan continues to navigate regional challenges, the legacy of the February 1st martyrs serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom and the importance of unity in safeguarding the future of the region.
