April 14, 2026
Today, we solemnly observe the 38th anniversary of the infamous Anfal campaign of 1988, a horrific act perpetrated by the former Iraqi regime that resulted in the deaths of more than 182,000 innocent people of Kurdistan, including children, women, men, and youth. Anfal was not merely a crime; it was a brutal attempt to eradicate a peaceful people, leaving deep scars that continue to affect our nation today.
On this occasion, we honor the memories of the martyrs and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families. In accordance with the ruling of the Iraqi High Criminal Court, we reiterate that it is the duty of the Iraqi Federal Government to provide compensation to the victims’ families.
On the international front, we will persist in our efforts to have Anfal recognized as an act of genocide. As part of our humanitarian and national obligation, we will tirelessly pursue the search for and return of the martyrs’ remains and ensure they are brought back to their homeland. It is imperative that we provide significantly more support to the surviving families of Anfal.
On this commemoration, we stress that safeguarding the constitutional status of the Kurdistan Region and our achievements can only be realized through the unity and joint efforts of all political parties and communities. This represents the highest form of respect for the martyrs’ sacrifices and is essential for securing a brighter future for the next generations.
May peace be upon the souls of the Anfal martyrs and all the fallen heroes of Kurdistan.
Nechirvan Barzani
President of the Kurdistan Region