پەرلەمانی کوردستان
Erbil, Kurdistan Region
February 4, 2025
President Nechirvan Barzani addressed attendees at the inauguration ceremony for the 3rd and 4th Infantry Divisions of the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs, which took place at the office of the Kurdistan Region Presidency in Erbil.
Major General Kevin Leahy, Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve, Vice President Sheikh Jaafar Sheikh Mustafa, the Minister of Peshmerga Affairs, the Minister of Interior, Chief of Staff of the Peshmerga, along with several senior officials and international representatives also attended the ceremony.
In his address, President Nechirvan Barzani emphasized the significance of this development in the ongoing unification efforts of the Peshmerga forces.
The following is a readout of his speech:
Major General Kevin Leahy, Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve,
Ladies and Gentleman,
Good day,
We are honored to welcome you to the inauguration ceremony of the 3rd and 4th Infantry Divisions of the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs. Following the presidential decree issued last October to establish these two divisions, we are delighted to witness their formal integration today. This event marks a significant advancement in the reform process and the unification of the Peshmerga, as they will now function under the auspices of the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs of the Kurdistan Regional Government.
The inauguration of these two divisions today marks a significant milestone in a long-standing journey that has unfolded over many years. This accomplishment transcends mere organizational or administrative progress; it symbolizes our unwavering determination and reflects the considerable sacrifices made by the people of Kurdistan and the Peshmerga throughout the years.
Ladies and gentlemen,
The Peshmerga transcends the definition of a conventional military force; it embodies heroism, sacrifice, and serves as a guardian of Kurdistan's security, playing a crucial role in the region's national identity. Since its inception, it has been a driving force behind the revolutions in Kurdistan and a defender of its peoples. In the face of the global menace posed by the terrorist organization ISIS, the Peshmerga has stood resolutely at the forefront, confronting this peril and its associated dangers.
The Peshmerga have valiantly engaged in a significant battle in collaboration with the International Coalition against ISIS, demonstrating to the world that it serves not only as a protector of Kurdistan but also as a guardian of peaceful coexistence among all communities within the region. Furthermore, it has emerged as a bulwark against this shared threat to humanity. To this end, the Peshmerga had been entrusted with the noble duty of defending all of humanity, fighting with unwavering dedication and sacrifice, ultimately achieving victory over ISIS under the leadership of President Masoud Barzani.
Due to its valor and significant achievements, the Peshmerga has emerged as a symbol of bravery and pride for the people of Kurdistan on the global stage. Across all nations and countries, the name of the Peshmerga is recognized as that of a heroic defender of humanity.
Ladies and gentlemen,
The success we celebrate today could not have been realized without the invaluable assistance of our partners within the International Coalition, who have played a crucial role in the reunification initiatives. This includes enhancing the capabilities of the Peshmerga through various means, such as training, the supply of military equipment, and logistical support.
We in the Kurdistan Region express our profound gratitude for the contributions made by our allies in the US-led International Coalition, who have provided invaluable support to us in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region during our most challenging periods.
To assist us in the reform process, as well as the unification and reorganization of the Peshmerga, our allies in the International Coalition — particularly the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Hungary, Italy, and France—have contributed to the establishment of essential principles for the integration of the Peshmerga within the framework of the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs. This initiative aims to transform the Peshmerga into a professional and transparent force, dedicated to serving the people of Kurdistan with loyalty and becoming an integral component of the Iraqi defense system.
Dear attendees,
The establishment of the 3rd and 4th Peshmerga Infantry Divisions represents a significant and strategic advancement in our overarching objective of developing a cohesive national military force. This force aims to be ever more professional and well-structured, thereby enhancing our capacity to safeguard and defend the nation against any potential threats.
The Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs oversees these forces, ensuring that they are consistently equipped to address any threats to the security of the Kurdistan Region and to uphold peace and stability.
The assistance of our friends is indeed essential; however, it is ultimately our internal determination that dictates the true success of this endeavor. The consolidation of the Peshmerga forces necessitates a collective effort characterized by unity, enabling us to transcend any divisions and conflicts that could obstruct this national initiative. The Peshmerga must function as a national entity, devoid of political and party influences, in order to safeguard Kurdistan.
I urge the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan to engage in utmost collaboration and support to ensure the success of the reform process and the unification of the Peshmerga. Achieving this goal is a collective national responsibility, and it is imperative that we address all challenges confronting this initiative. Ultimately, it is essential that all Peshmerga forces, as a unified national entity, operate under the auspices of the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs, which should be governed by a single leadership, centralized control, and a unified direction.
Ladies and gentleman,
While the stages of the reform process and the unification of the Peshmerga may not align with our desires and anticipations, our commitment to ensuring the success of this process will continue unabated.
This national initiative represents our commitment to the people of Kurdistan and to future generations. Consequently, with unwavering energy, capability, resolve, and determination, we shall persist in our efforts to ensure the success of this endeavor, allowing the Peshmerga forces to remain a steadfast symbol of unity, strength, and a protective shield against all threats and dangers facing Kurdistan.
It is essential and highly significant to acknowledge the cooperation and coordination between the Peshmerga and the Iraqi army forces on this occasion. We urge the Iraqi Federal Government to adhere to the constitution and legal frameworks as integral components of the Iraqi defense system, thereby fulfilling its responsibilities and obligations towards the Peshmerga in all respects.
The valor and sacrifices of the Peshmerga, along with the noble blood of the martyrs of Kurdistan, combined with the backing of our partners in the international coalition and our shared dedication, bring us together today with a sense of pride. We are honored to persist in our efforts to serve and develop Kurdistan, striving for the unity of the Peshmerga.
The formation of the Third and Fourth Divisions, along with the ongoing efforts towards the reunification of the Peshmerga, serve as a significant source of joy for the people of Kurdistan, despite the numerous challenges and difficulties faced. This development also brings solace to the spirits of our martyrs.
The people of Kurdistan are keenly anticipating the announcement regarding the formation of the new cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government, despite the region currently experiencing a complex situation and encountering numerous challenges.
I urge all elected members to prioritize this matter and to fulfill the aspirations of the people of Kurdistan through successful negotiations and the establishment of a new government. It is imperative to form a government promptly that addresses the needs and expectations of the citizens of the Kurdistan Region.
We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to this accomplishment today.
May peace be upon the souls of the martyrs.
Long live our brave Peshmerga.
Wishing you all a pleasant day.
Thank you very much.
