President Masoud Barzani Hails Iraqi Parliament's Decision Granting Provincial Status to Halabja
In a statement, President Barzani expressed gratitude to the Iraqi Presidency, members of parliament, and all political factions who played a constructive role in passing the bill.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — President Masoud Barzani on Monday welcomed the Iraqi Parliament’s decision to officially recognize Halabja as a province, praising the move as a long-overdue achievement for the region and a tribute to the sacrifices of its people.
In a statement, President Barzani expressed gratitude to the Iraqi Presidency, members of parliament, and all political factions who played a constructive role in passing the bill. He extended special congratulations to the Kurdish factions in the Iraqi Parliament for their unified efforts in securing this historic milestone.
"I would like to thank the Presidency and all the members and political factions in the Iraqi Parliament who played a positive role in approving the bill," Barzani stated. "I congratulate the Kurdish factions of the Iraqi Parliament for unanimously securing this achievement, which reflects the commitment of all those who have worked to make Halabja a province."
Barzani also extended heartfelt congratulations to the people of Halabja and all Kurds, expressing hope that the new provincial status would help revitalize the region and bring healing to a community that has endured immense suffering.
“Halabja’s provincial status will serve as a stepping stone to revitalize this resilient region of Kurdistan and help heal the wounds and pains of its citizens,” he said.
Commemorating the victims of the 1988 chemical attack, Barzani added, “On this occasion, we send thousands of greetings to the souls of the martyrs of Halabja and all the martyrs of Kurdistan, wishing good luck to the people of Halabja and all of Kurdistan.”
Halabja, known for the tragic chemical attack by the former Iraqi regime that killed thousands of civilians, has long sought recognition as a province. The official endorsement by the Iraqi Parliament marks a significant step in acknowledging the city’s historical and political importance within Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
