Kurdistan: the Glorious Past and the Exciting Future

[Anthea]

Kurdistan President Urges
Strong Participation in Iraqi Elections

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Kurdistan President Nechirvan Barzani on Monday called on citizens across the Kurdistan Region to take part in the general voting for the Iraqi parliamentary elections scheduled for Tuesday, emphasizing that broad participation is essential for safeguarding the future and strengthening the Region’s position within Iraq

In a statement released by the Kurdistan Region Presidency, President Barzani described voting as both a right and a national responsibility, urging eligible voters to cast their ballots “in a civilized and free manner.”

“The destiny and future of our country, the enforcement of the constitution, and the strengthening of federalism will hinge on your participation and votes,” the statement read.

President Barzani stressed that participation in the elections is a “message and a moral obligation” that reflects the people’s commitment to democracy, coexistence, and a better future. He noted that a high turnout will reinforce the Kurdistan Region’s role in Baghdad and highlight the Kurdish people’s dedication to stability and progress.

The President also called on relevant authorities to ensure that the election process is conducted transparently and professionally, and urged political parties to act responsibly and in line with the law while cooperating with the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC).

“It is our collective responsibility to present a positive image of democracy and civility in the Kurdistan Region,” he stated.

Concluding his message, President Barzani encouraged every eligible voter to take part in shaping the future of the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, saying, “Every vote holds significance for Kurdistan. Participate and vote to help shape your future and that of our country.”

This year’s elections will feature 38 political parties, 31 coalitions, and 75 individual lists, with a total of 7,768 candidates—5,520 men and 2,248 women—competing for seats in Iraq’s Council of Representatives.

The upcoming vote will be held under a new electoral system introduced after the 2018 elections and nationwide protests from 2019 to 2021, shifting from proportional representation to a single non-transferable vote system in 83 multi-member constituencies.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/87 ... -elections

[Anthea]

KDP Vice President Hails
Over One Million Votes in Kurdistan

Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) Vice President Masrour Barzani hailed the party’s achievement of surpassing one million votes in the recent Iraqi parliamentary elections, describing the result as a milestone for the party and the people of Kurdistan

The figure is expected to rise further in the final results, reflecting strong voter engagement across the region.

“Thank God, and with the will and determination of the loyal citizens of Kurdistan and the members of the party, the votes for the KDP exceeded one million,” VP Barzani said. He extended his congratulations to President Masoud Barzani, whom he called “the leader of our nation,” and to “my brother”, Nechirvan Barzani, noting his aim of reaching the one million-vote mark

He also thanked party leaders, members, and supporters, and congratulated all citizens of Kurdistan. “May this great victory in the democratic process be blessed for all the people of Iraq. We will continue to serve all Kurdistan and our homeland with more vigor and strength. Towards a more stable and prosperous country,” he added.

The KDP, founded in 1946 under Mulla Mustafa Barzani, is the oldest Kurdish political party and has long dominated the region’s political landscape. Its platform combines Kurdish nationalism with social justice, and the party has historically secured large majorities in regional elections, shaping the governance and autonomy of the Kurdistan Region.

VP Barzani’s remarks framed the results not only as a party victory but also as a validation of Kurdish leadership and a mandate to strengthen the Kurdistan Region’s position within Iraq. He highlighted that the party will continue defending the constitutional rights of the people of Kurdistan, advancing regional priorities, and contributing to a more stable and prosperous Iraq.

The strong KDP performance is expected to influence post-election negotiations in Baghdad and the broader balance of power in Iraq, as coalition-building and federal reforms take center stage. For the Kurdistan Region, the results reinforce the party’s continued role in shaping both regional governance and federal relations.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/898954

[Anthea]

KDP achieves landslide victory

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) has emerged as a major winner in Iraq’s legislative elections, securing more than 9.4 percent of the total votes cast on Tuesday. Among parties in the Kurdistan Region and disputed areas, the KDP came out on top, followed by its rival, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), according to Rudaw’s election projections

Masrour Barzani, the KDP's Second Deputy and Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, said the party secured more than a million votes.

According to projections compiled by Rudaw, the KDP secured around 9.4 percent of the total votes released by the Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC), which on Tuesday reported that the number of voters stood at approximately 10.9 million

Importantly, the high turnout of KDP supporters comes against the backdrop of the “One Million Votes and More” campaign spearheaded by the KDP’s First Deputy and President of the Kurdistan Region, Nechirvan Barzani, during the party’s electoral campaign, which began on October 3 and ended when the electoral silence period went into effect on November 8.

“I thank my dear brother Mr. Nechirvan [Barzani], who first announced the one-million-vote challenge,” Masrour Barzani said in a Facebook post shortly after polls closed across and the ballot count begun on Tuesday.

For its part, the KDP’s traditional foe, the PUK, secured around half the number of votes gained by the KDP and, accordingly, about 18 seats in Iraq’s 329-member legislature, according to Rudaw projections.

Meanwhile, Kurdish opposition parties collectively won 13 seats in Iraq’s Council of Representatives.

The National Stance Movement (Halwest) secured five seats, followed by the Kurdistan Islamic Union (KIU) with four and the New Generation Movement (NGM) with three. The Kurdistan Justice Group (Komal) secured only one seat.

The breakdown

The KDP secured a strong lead in Erbil, win 10 seats. The PUK and Halwest both followed with two seats each, and the NGM obtained one. The Islamic parties gained no seats. Erbil has 15 seats in the Iraqi parliament.

In the Kurdistan Region'a eastern Sulaimani province, the results shifted dramatically, with the PUK dominating the vote with eight seats, followed by Halwest’s three seats. The KDP, NGM, and KIU gained two seats each. Sulaimani has 17 seats in the Iraqi parliament.

Meanwhile, in the northern province of Duhok, the KDP reaffirmed its dominance, capturing nine seats. The KIU received three seats and the other Kurdish parties gained no seats.

In the disputed Kirkuk province, the PUK achieved a landslide victory, gaining six seats, while the KDP won two seats. The remaining four seats went to Arab and Turkmen parties, based on Rudaw’s calculations.

Arab thieves should not have been allowed to vote

In Iraq's northern Nineveh province, the KDP gained five seats, while the PUK secured two. Other Kurdish parties failed to win any seats.

The PUK obtained two seats in Iraq's eastern Diyala and central Salahaddin provinces. Other Kurdish parties did not win any seats in these provinces.

Winners and losers of the election

The NGM and Baray Gal (The People's Front) , whose leaders - Shaswar Abdulwahid and Lahur Talabany, who are currently behind the bars respectively have faced election defeats, paving the way for the newly-established Halwest under the leadership of Ali Hama Salih, a former outspoken lawmaker, to step in and secure the third or fourth place, after the ruling KDP and PUK.

The Sulaimani-based NGM, the Region's main opposition, won nine seats in Iraq's 2021 legislative elections, and garnered 15 seats in Kurdistan Region's October 2024 parliamentary polls.

However, the NGM performed very poorly in Tuesday’s federal general elections, according to results projected by Rudaw’s Election Desk.

Abdulwahid, the party's leader and founder, was jailed by Sulaimani security forces in mid-August and has been sentenced to five months over charges pertaining to making serious threats against others, their property, or their reputation. His NRT news channel earlier this month tried to air an interview, conducted over a phone call, but the program was barred by security forces following a decree by the ministry of culture.

The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has also auctioned off many of his properties due to his failure to repay loans owed to the government.

Abdulwahid's absence from the election campaign and the auctioning of his properties have apparently had a significant impact on the party’s weak performance.

The results do not include early voting from Sunday, during which the ruling parties traditionally received massive support.

The other jailed opposition leader, Talabany, has been imprisoned since late August. He is also based in Sulaimani. The party suffered a major setback in Tuesday’s polls, according to Rudaw’s projected results.

Talabany is a former co-president of the PUK. He was arrested following a violent standoff between his armed loyalists and security personnel. Sulaimani security forces (Asayish) then released what they said were confessions from a group linked to Talabany, detailing a plot to assassinate PUK leader Bafel Talabani. Baray Gal has denied the accusations.

It is Bafel Talabani who should be in prison

Voter turnout across Iraq

The Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) has announced that the overall turnout across Iraq for the parliamentary elections exceeded 55 percent.

"The total number of voters in the general election [on Tuesday] is 10,898,327 out of a total of 20,063,773 eligible voters, making the voter turnout percentage more than (54%)," said the IHEC

The commission added that the total number of voters in both the early and general elections exceeded 12 million, noting that voter turnout for both days surpassed 55 percent.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/111120254

[Anthea]

KDP Leads in Erbil, Duhok, and Nineveh
KDP received 1,099,826 votes in both the special and general elections

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) announced on Wednesday the preliminary results of the Iraqi parliamentary elections, showing the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) in the lead across the provinces of Erbil, Duhok, and Nineveh

According to the IHEC, voter turnout in these provinces was among the highest in the country, reflecting strong participation in the electoral process. Overall, the KDP received 1,099,826 votes in both the special and general elections across Iraq.

Erbil Province

A total of 798,986 voters cast their ballots, marking a 71.65% turnout.

KDP: 369,118 votes

Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK): 97,301 votes

National Stance Movement: 63,288 votes

New Generation Movement: 39,911 votes

Kurdistan Islamic Union: 28,650 votes

Kurdistan Justice Group: 13,772 votes

People's Front: 5,584 votes

Kurdistan Social Democratic Party: 762 votes

Duhok Province

Of 623,852 voters, turnout was 77.47%.

KDP: 413,698 votes

Kurdistan Islamic Union: 72,959 votes

National Stance Movement: 18,314 votes

New Generation Movement: 14,671 votes

PUK: 2,423 votes

People's Front: 2,778 votes

Kurdistan Justice Group: 1,419 votes

Kurdistan Social Democratic Party: 295 votes

Nineveh Province

Nineveh recorded 1,353,365 voters with a 65.09% turnout.

KDP: 189,120 votes

Progress Party: 157,283 votes

Reconstruction and Development Coalition: 146,724 votes

Nineveh For Its People: 111,005 votes

Azem Alliance: 100,853 votes

National Asim Alliance: 89,492 votes

Badr Organization: 77,006 votes

The preliminary results reaffirm the KDP’s strong electoral presence in the Kurdistan Region and parts of northern Iraq. More than 12 million Iraqis cast ballots out of over 21 million eligible voters.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/87 ... on-results

[Anthea]

IHEC Outlines Final Results
Appeals Steps Ahead of Final Election Results

The Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) on Thursday confirmed the formation of legal committees, led by judges and legal advisers, to handle election appeals and outlined the process for announcing final results. The commission emphasized that decisions issued by the Council of Commissioners can be challenged within three days of publication

IHEC spokesperson Jumana Al-Ghalai said the committees consist of specialized legal staff and are led by members of the Council of Commissioners. They are tasked with reviewing complaints and ensuring the electoral process is conducted transparently and according to the law.

“The commission has formed committees of specialized legal staff, led by members of the Council of Commissioners, including judges and advisers, to address complaints,” Al-Ghalai said. “The final results are announced by a decision of the Council of Commissioners.”

She stressed that any decision made by the Council of Commissioners can be appealed before the Electoral Judicial Authority within three days of publication. This allows candidates and political parties to formally contest decisions and ensures accountability in the electoral process.

Al-Ghalai added that after the appeals process is concluded, the Federal Court ratifies the results. Votes for disqualified candidates are excluded from the final tally, reinforcing the integrity of the outcome.

The commission indicated that final election results could be announced as early as next week. Polling stations that have not yet submitted results are being processed and entered into the central tabulation system. This step is being carried out alongside the resolution of complaints.

“The final results will be announced after resolving complaints, and this announcement is made by a decision of the Council of Commissioners,” Al-Ghalai said.

She outlined the timeline for appeals, noting that IHEC has seven working days to review complaints, while the Electoral Judicial Authority has ten days to consider appeals. Once this process is complete, the election process is officially concluded.

Regarding seat allocation, Al-Ghalai explained that votes are entered into a specialized computer program using the Saint-Laguë formula, which distributes seats accurately among all parties and candidates across the governorates.

“Seats are calculated using a specialized program that inputs candidate votes and precisely distributes seats in each governorate,” she said, emphasizing the technical precision and transparency of the process.

She added that the Saint-Laguë method ensures fair and proportional representation, while excluding votes from disqualified candidates. This guarantees that parliamentary representation reflects the choices of eligible voters.

The commission highlighted that the completion of tabulation and appeals marks the official conclusion of the electoral process. The announcement of final results and the distribution of seats will follow, providing clarity for political parties, candidates, and the public.

Al-Ghalai’s statement underscores IHEC’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and adherence to legal procedures. The formation of legal committees and use of the Saint-Laguë formula are designed to uphold the integrity of Iraq’s parliamentary elections, while ensuring disputes are addressed in a structured manner.

The announcement signals the final stages of Iraq’s electoral process, moving the country closer to the official declaration of results and the formation of a new parliament.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/899109

[Anthea]

KDP Wins Two Parliamentary
Seats in Wasit and Khanaqin

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Shakhawan Abdullah, a member of the Kurdistan Democratic Party’s (KDP) Central Committee, announced on Thursday that the party has secured two seats in the Iraqi parliamentary elections — one in Wasit province and another in Khanaqin distric

In a statement posted on Facebook, Abdullah said the KDP had pledged to ensure Kurdish representation in Khanaqin, Sadiyah, Jalawla, Mandali, Qara Tapa, and Sharaban, as well as within the party’s 15th branch in Khanaqin. He noted that this achievement fulfills the party’s commitment to restoring the rights of Feyli Kurds and returning them to their rightful political place within the KDP.

Abdullah revealed that President Masoud Barzani had personally supported this initiative and even cast his vote for the Feyli Kurdish candidate, reaffirming his long-standing dedication to the rights and representation of the Feyli community.

Following the sixth round of the Iraqi parliamentary elections held on November 11, KDP candidates Haider Ali Mohammed (Wasit province) and Nazk Ahmad Mohammed (Khanaqin district) officially won seats in the Iraqi Parliament.

In closing, Abdullah extended his gratitude to the leadership and members of the KDP’s Baghdad Organizational Bureau, as well as the 5th and 15th branches in Baghdad and Khanaqin, for their efforts in securing this electoral success. He congratulated the Kurdish people and the KDP’s one million supporters on what he described as a “significant victory” for Kurdish representation and unity in Iraq.

The Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission (IHEC) announced on Wednesday the preliminary results of the Iraqi parliamentary elections, showing the KDP in the lead across the provinces of Erbil, Duhok, and Nineveh.

According to the IHEC, voter turnout in these provinces was among the highest in the country, reflecting strong participation in the electoral process. Overall, the KDP received 1,099,826 votes in both the special and general elections across Iraq.

The preliminary results reaffirm the KDP’s strong electoral presence in the Kurdistan Region and parts of northern Iraq. More than 12 million Iraqis cast ballots on Tuesday out of over 21 million eligible voters.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/87 ... esentation

[Anthea]

KDP Becomes Iraq’s Leading Political Force

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — The European Union on Wednesday called on Iraq’s political forces to “support the formation of a government that reflects the will of the Iraqi people,” following the country’s November 11 parliamentary elections — a vote that has dramatically shifted Iraq’s political landscape, with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) emerging as the largest political party nationwide

In a statement issued from Brussels, the EU commended the people of Iraq for “exercising their democratic right to vote,” describing the elections as “an important opportunity for Iraq to strengthen its institutions, ensure inclusiveness and accountability, and consolidate its political future.”

The bloc also reaffirmed its “unequivocal support for the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Iraq,” stressing the importance of stability amid a “shifting geopolitical context in the Middle East.”

An EU Election Expert Mission, deployed at the invitation of the Iraqi Independent High Electoral Commission, observed the process and reported a higher turnout compared to the 2018 and 2021 elections — a sign of renewed public engagement after years of political stagnation.

KDP’s rise: A new Kurdish era in Baghdad

The KDP’s sweeping victory, surpassing one million votes, marks a historic milestone for both Kurdistan and Iraq. For the first time since 2003, a Kurdish party has emerged as Iraq’s top political force, surpassing Shiite and Sunni rivals alike.

This outcome strengthens the Kurdish political presence in Baghdad and positions the KDP as a decisive actor in shaping the next government.

Political analysts say the party’s success restores long-lost leverage for the Kurdistan Region, following years of federal budget cuts, constitutional violations, and political marginalization under successive Baghdad governments.

The KDP’s enhanced role is expected to bring renewed focus on implementing constitutional guarantees for the Kurdistan Region, including fair revenue sharing, resolving disputed territories outside the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) administrative control, and a more equitable national budget process.

With its popular mandate, the party is set to demand stronger federal partnership — not as a regional claimant, but as a leading national stakeholder in Iraq’s governance.

This election gives the KDP unprecedented influence in Baghdad. For the first time, the Kurdish voice will not just be part of the conversation — it will shape the agenda.

Trump’s envoy reshaping post-election Iraq

The new phase in Iraq’s politics is unfolding under growing American influence, led by U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to Iraq, Mark Savaya.

Savaya has been quietly working to realign Baghdad’s political map, promoting a new government that reflects U.S.-backed principles of sovereignty, reform, and balance — while limiting Tehran’s grip on Iraqi politics.

This effort signals a return of U.S. assertiveness in Iraq after years of regional retrenchment. For Washington, the key question remains: will the U.S. allow another Iranian-aligned government to emerge, as occurred repeatedly since 2003?

Most analysts believe not. With Tehran’s regional network under growing strain — from Hezbollah in Lebanon to Hamas in Gaza and the Houthis in Yemen — Washington appears intent on ensuring that Iraq’s new leadership aligns more closely with Western and Arab partners rather than Iran’s Revolutionary Guard network.

The emerging framework aims to produce a government grounded in “sovereignty first, partnership next”, empowering moderate nationalist forces and curbing the influence of militias that have long undermined Iraq’s independence.

The fading shadow of Iran-backed militias

The fate of Iran-backed Shiite militias — including Kata’ib Hezbollah, Asa’ib Ahl al-Haq, and the Badr Organization — now looms large over Iraq’s transition.

These groups, long backed by Tehran and entrenched within the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), have dominated Iraq’s security landscape since the war against ISIS.

However, regional precedents suggest their influence may now be receding. The weakening of Hezbollah in Lebanon under Israeli pressure, the decimation of Hamas infrastructure in Gaza, and the diminishing capabilities of Houthis in Yemen have collectively weakened Iran’s axis of militias. Iraq, observers argue, could be the next front in this realignment.

A stronger U.S. diplomatic and security presence, coupled with growing domestic resentment toward militia corruption and violence, may accelerate efforts to reintegrate or disband these factions.

Iraqi political sources suggest that Washington and Baghdad are already exploring mechanisms to restructure the PMF under tighter state control — a move that could redefine Iraq’s internal balance of power.

A Crossroads for Iraq’s Future

As the European Union reaffirmed its support for Iraq’s unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, the country finds itself at a pivotal moment — a historic crossroads that could define its trajectory for years to come.

The combination of the KDP’s strong electoral performance, ongoing U.S.-led political adjustments, and shifts in regional influence creates an opportunity for Iraq to form a government that is more representative and inclusive of its diverse population.

For decades, Baghdad’s political gridlock and external interference have hindered effective governance, marginalized minority voices, and stoked regional instability.

The current moment, however, offers a chance to recalibrate the balance of power in favor of inclusivity, accountability, and long-term stability.

If this momentum is seized, the resulting coalition could usher in a new political order, where Kurds, Sunnis, and moderate Shiite factions work collaboratively to rebuild state institutions, enforce constitutional guarantees, and implement equitable policies on revenue sharing, security, and public services.

Such a coalition would not only strengthen domestic governance but also improve Iraq’s standing in the broader Middle East, creating avenues for regional cooperation on security, trade, and energy.

Moreover, the KDP’s ascendance signals a redefinition of Baghdad’s decision-making dynamic. Kurdish influence, long constrained by budgetary disputes and marginalization, is now positioned to act as a stabilizing force, ensuring that the rights and resources of the Kurdistan Region are respected within Iraq’s federal framework.

The EU’s appeal for a government that reflects the will of the Iraqi people resonates with this broader geopolitical opportunity: a pathway for Iraq to assert its sovereignty, mitigate external interference, and integrate diverse political and ethnic constituencies into the heart of governance.

With a coalition that includes significant Kurdish representation and broad international support, Iraq now faces the prospect of a fundamentally altered political landscape — one that could reshape power balances in Baghdad, strengthen federalism, and redefine Iraq’s role in regional and international affairs.

https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/87 ... ical-force

[Anthea]

Barzani Praises Sulaymaniyah’s 241st Anniversary

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), on Friday issued a message marking the 241st anniversary of the founding of Sulaymaniyah, praising the city’s historic role in resisting oppression and contributing to the Kurdish national movement

In his statement, Barzani extended “warmest congratulations” to the people of Sulaymaniyah, describing it as “the city of Sheikh Nuri and the city of struggle and sacrifice.”

He highlighted Sulaymaniyah’s central place in Kurdish history, noting its legacy as “the city of the martyrs of June 9,” its resistance to the 1963 coup, and its longstanding stance against “injustice, tyranny, and successive regimes.” The city, he said, has consistently served as a home for Kurdish writers, poets, intellectuals, fighters, and revolutionaries.

Barzani also recalled the city’s solidarity with the Barzani family in the early 1940s, when residents welcomed “the Mullah Mustafa Barzani and the exiled Barzanis with warmth and appreciation,” a gesture he said “will never be forgotten.”

He concluded by wishing the people of Sulaymaniyah “peace and serenity,” expressing hope that they achieve “the progress and leadership they deserve.”

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/899143

[Anthea]

A former Goran parliamentarian sent a message to Bafel Talabani, the head of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), criticizing him for making himself the absolute ruler of the city, restricting freedom of expression in the city, and lowering the level of Sulaimaniyah to the level of a district.

Latif Mustafa، also known as Hakim Sheikh Latif، a former Goran MP in the Iraqi parliament، sent a message to Bafel Talabani on his Facebook page on the occasion of the anniversary of the founding of Sulaimaniyah in which he declared: "I can tell you frankly that Sulaimaniyah has been reduced from the level of the province to the level of a district. There are rich people in the country and the people are poor. "The government has taken control of all the economic joints of the city and has not left a breath of fresh air for anyone outside of it."

He also quoted Bafel as saying that "I am following in my father's way" and that he refuted this claim and cited two proofs: "You have made yourself the absolute governor of the city، the head of its security and military apparatus، and you issue orders to the civil authorities without having any official qualifications."

As he tells Bafel: "Either you have to do partisan work, or, if you like, you have to be mayor of the city and exercise the powers of the governor in accordance with the provincial law, or you should allow the governor and government agencies to have full power and you as a party to oversee them." "In no time since has the governor and the government been so powerless"

In the second example، Latif Mustafa told Bafel Talabani: "Now in your time، freedom of expression is in decline، and it has reached the point that closed gatherings and gatherings in closed halls are not allowed without permission from the security forces. There are many other examples, but a handful is a good example."

In his letter to Bafel, the former Goran MP wrote: "Unfortunately, you yourself do not have experience in governance, those around you do not have experience, and you do not want to have experts around you. "If you continue to do this kind of thing، you will get worse every day."

[Anthea]

KDP will not block any political party

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), said his party will not block any political faction from participating in the next Iraqi government, stressing that full commitment to the constitution and genuine belief in federalism will serve as the basis for future partnerships in Baghdad

Bafel Talabani must be arrested for TREASON before he destroys anymore of Kurdistan

His remarks came during a meeting in Erbil with Irfan Siddiq, the British Ambassador to Iraq, who congratulated Barzani on the successful conduct of the elections and the KDP securing more than one million votes. Siddiq expressed hope that the post-election phase would lead to the formation of an inclusive federal government with participation from all major political parties.

Barzani described the election results as a significant achievement, crediting the people of Kurdistan for their trust despite ongoing challenges. He said the next stage is crucial for correcting the course of governance in Iraq through genuine power-sharing and the enforcement of constitutional provisions that have long remained unimplemented.

“We have no veto on any person or party,” Barzani said. “What is important to us is that any party has full faith in federalism based on the constitution, believes in implementing the constitution, passing laws related to its articles, and enforcing those laws that have been enacted but not yet implemented, such as the Federation Council Law and the Oil and Gas Law. Any party that commits to implementing the constitution will be our closest ally and that of the Kurdistan Region.”

He added that unity among Kurdish representatives in Baghdad must be anchored in shared principles — the protection of Kurdistan’s constitutional rights and the defense of Iraq’s federal system. Barzani said the doors of dialogue remain open to address internal political issues in the Kurdistan Region, noting that the flexible approach adopted before the elections will evolve in the coming period.

Barzani’s talks with the British ambassador were part of a series of diplomatic engagements on Sunday. Earlier the same day, he met with South Korea’s Ambassador to Iraq, Lee Jun-il, along with South Korean Consul General in Erbil Seungcheol Lim, to discuss strengthening bilateral ties.

Lee praised the KDP’s election success and described relations between Koreans and Kurds as historically rooted — recalling the deployment of South Korea’s Zaytun Division in Erbil from 2004 to 2008. The division carried out humanitarian operations, civic protection, and post-war reconstruction work as part of Seoul’s contribution to Iraq’s stabilization.

Barzani noted that many Kurds hold South Korea in high regard, seeing it as a model for rapid development through resilience and determination. He welcomed Seoul’s continued assistance in public-sector development and economic modernization, as South Korean companies — including Hyundai and LG — expand their presence in the Kurdistan Region. In 2016, South Korea upgraded its diplomatic mission in Erbil to a consulate

The KDP leader also received Ziad Batarseh, the new Consul General of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Batarseh congratulated the KDP on its strong election performance, calling it evidence of the party’s legitimacy and the progress achieved in the Kurdistan Region.

Barzani expressed gratitude to King Abdullah for Jordan’s support during difficult times, calling him a “dear brother and friend,” and said relations with Amman would continue to deepen on political, economic, and cultural fronts.

All three meetings included discussions on Iraq’s post-election political environment and the ongoing risk terrorism poses to regional stability. Diplomats reiterated support for the peaceful transition of power and formation of a federal government that reflects the will of Iraqi voters.

Iraq held its latest parliamentary elections on November 11, 2025, with voters casting ballots to fill all 329 seats in the Council of Representatives. Turnout reached about 56.1%, according to Iraq’s Independent High Electoral Commission, indicating a stronger participation compared to some previous elections. The voting system again followed proportional representation with constituencies based on the governorates, and the reserved quotas remained in place for women and minorities.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ al-Sudani’s coalition secured the highest number of votes nationwide—around 1.317 million—placing it first in the election. But despite leading the race, it did not secure a majority, meaning that political negotiations and coalition-building will be essential to form a government. Analysts and observers noted that the results reinforced the fragmented nature of Iraq’s political arena, where alliances among major blocs determine the final shape of the executive.

Kurdish parties retained their significant role in Baghdad politics. Altogether, Kurdish lists won 58 seats, maintaining their ability to influence major parliamentary decisions and government formation talks.

The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) emerged once again as the largest Kurdish force, winning roughly 27 seats, according to initial results reported by regional and international outlets. KDP leaders highlighted that the party had secured more than one million votes, while also criticizing the current electoral law and calling for reforms they argue would better reflect voter strength in Kurdistan Region constituencies.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/899310

[Anthea]

Peshmerga completes procedures
for integration into the ministry

A powerful Peshmerga unit affiliated with the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) announced on Monday that it has completed all required procedures to integrate into the relevant ministry amid ongoing efforts to unify all Peshmerga forces

"All administrative procedures have been completed, and the dossier has been submitted to the ministry of Peshmerga. After signing, it [Unit 80] will be integrated. The decision of the Command of Region One has also been issued," Gen. Najat Ali, commander of the KDP-affiliated Unit 80, told Rudaw.

The US-led global coalition has been assisting the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) for years to unify all Peshmerga forces, especially those affiliated with the ruling KDP and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).

The PUK-affiliated Unit 70 is not fully ready to join the ministry yet

Urgent need to arrest Bafel Talabani

The procedures to integrate Unit 70 "have yet to be completed, but they are in the final stages," Ahmed Latif, spokesperson for the unit, told Rudaw on Monday, adding that no timeframe has been set for the completion of the process.

Latif blamed bureaucracy and a vast number of Peshmerga personnel for the delay in the completion of the integration process.

The progress in the Unit 80 integration represents a major step toward consolidating all Peshmerga units under the Kurdistan Region's Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs. The effort includes transforming the two powerful units into a single chain of command. These two units together comprise the majority of the Peshmerga forces, totaling over 100,000 troops.

The KRG has pursued the unification of its military forces for years, aiming to establish a professional, depoliticized national force free from partisan control.

In September, the United States reiterated its commitment to the efforts to reform the Kurdish Peshmerga forces, reaffirming its support for a secure and prosperous Kurdistan Region. Washington has provided financial and military support to Peshmerga in the last decade.

Despite steady international support, the unification process has faced numerous setbacks. Between 2010 and 2013, approximately 42,000 Peshmerga from Unit 70 and Unit 80 were merged, and 14 brigades were formed. However, progress was stalled by internal political tensions and the outbreak of war against the Islamic State in 2014.

A renewed push came in 2018 with the announcement of a 35-point reform plan for unification, developed in collaboration with international partners.

In July, Babakir Zebari, former chief of staff of Iraq’s Army and advisor to the Kurdistan Region’s presidency, told Rudaw that the Peshmerga unification had entered its final phase and would be completed by the end of the year.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/171120252

[Anthea]

Erbil Named Among Asia’s Top
Travel Destinations for 2026

Condé Nast Traveller has named Erbil one of the “Best Places to Go in Asia in 2026,” highlighting the Kurdish capital’s blend of ancient heritage, rapid modern development, and renowned hospitality

The magazine praised Erbil’s ability to preserve its 6,000-year-old history while pushing forward with ambitious plans for a peaceful and prosperous future.

Central to this identity is the Erbil Citadel, the UNESCO World Heritage Site believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements on Earth.

Parts of the Citadel have recently reopened following extensive restoration, with a boutique hotel and restaurant expected to launch within its historic walls.

Erbil, described by the publication as a calm and welcoming destination in a volatile region, is increasingly drawing international attention.

Reacting to the recognition, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani said in a post on X that “Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, continues to inspire the world,” adding that the title as Asia’s top destination for 2026 “is more than a ranking — it is a tribute to our people, their warmth, and the stories of thousands of years of history.”

The city is home to a diverse population proud of its Kurdish identity and heritage.

Its leadership is also working to reshape global perceptions, particularly through the launch of Visit Kurdistan in 2026 — a private sector initiative backed by the government aimed at attracting 20 million tourists by 2030

The skyline is rapidly transforming as cranes mark new construction projects.

Among these developments is Erbil Avenue, a major residential and commercial complex featuring globally recognized brands such as Gordon Ramsay’s Street Burger, EL&N London, CZN Burak, and Entrecote Café de Paris.

The United States is also preparing to open what will reportedly be its largest consulate in the world, located in an Erbil suburb, while plans for a Real Madrid youth football academy are underway.

Cultural heritage remains at the heart of Erbil’s tourism revival. Inside the Citadel, visitors can explore the Kurdish Textile Museum and the Cihan Cultural House, which offers traditional food, craft workshops, and locally produced goods

Meanwhile, the city’s iconic 120-foot Choli Minaret — a historic landmark dominating Erbil’s skyline for centuries — is scheduled for restoration.

With tourism surging, new investments growing, and cultural sites being revived, Condé Nast Traveller says Erbil is poised to “watch over a new era” for the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/899443

[Anthea]

Key Role of Kurdish Diaspora

in National Cause

Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani, president of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), on Wednesday reaffirmed that the Kurdish national cause remains the highest priority and said the Kurdistani diaspora plays an essential role in advancing that mission

During a meeting with a delegation from the Kurdistani diaspora confederation, Barzani emphasized that the presence and achievements of Kurds abroad form a vital part of a broader national strategy.

“The cause of the Kurdish nation is above all else, and prioritizing the Kurdistani diaspora is part of this strategy,” Barzani said, noting that Kurdish communities overseas have contributed significantly to scientific fields and professional sectors, strengthening the Kurdistan cause through global influence and engagement

Barzani also touched on the long struggle of the Kurdish people, recalling decades of resistance to oppression and efforts to safeguard their identity. He highlighted Kurdistan’s history as a refuge of peaceful coexistence among different ethnic and religious groups — a tradition he said must continue to be protected.

The Kurdish leader warned of growing narcotics threats targeting the Kurdistan Region, saying such attempts were deliberate and aimed at harming society. He urged strong measures to counter the spread of drugs. Barzani additionally noted ongoing government efforts to improve public services in areas including water, electricity and transportation.

The meeting in Duhok took place on the sidelines of regional political discussions, as Kurdish leaders continue to advocate for stronger ties with global Kurdish communities and greater international recognition of Kurdish rights and aspirations.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/899584

[Anthea]

KDP claims main opposition
ready to join Kurdistan cabinet

The main opposition, New Generation Movement (NGM), has expressed its readiness to join the next Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), a senior member of the ruling Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) claimed on Sunday. This comes amid the NGM’s failure to maintain its seats in the federal legislature

Aras Hasso Mirkhan told Rudaw that the NGM is prepared to participate in the upcoming KRG cabinet and that the KDP can form the government “with other parties” and without its rival and traditional partner, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).

Rudaw English reached out to the NGM but did not immediately receive a response.

The Sulaimani-based NGM has opposed the idea of joining any coalition with Kurdistan Region’s ruling parties or the Region’s cabinets unless offered top positions

The KDP, the strongest party in the Region, “has discussed giving us ministries along with deputy ministers, director generals, and those positions. They've said whatever item we want can be put on the government's agenda, but truthfully, we - with all due respect - don't trust these things,” party leader Shaswar Abdulwahid, who has been jailed since August, said in a press conference in January.

The NGM obtained nine seats in the 2021 federal parliament, but only three in the latest elections. The NGM has repeatedly alleged that the imprisonment of its leader was plotted by the Region's ruling parties to weaken their standing.

“If we don't have power, authority, sovereign positions so that we can fulfill our promises to people, we won't participate in any way and will remain in opposition,” he added.

The Kurdistan Region held its long-overdue parliamentary elections in October 2024. The ruling KDP won 39 seats, followed by the PUK with 23 seats. The NGM took third place with 15 seats.

Following the elections, all opposition parties said they were not interested in joining government formation negotiations. Discussions have largely been between the KDP and PUK, with both sides trading blame over the prolonged delay in forming a cabinet.

Mirkhan on Sunday confirmed that the KDP has held talks with other parties and that they are willing to move forward. The KDP in early November accused the PUK of withholding the formation of the cabinet until after the federal elections.

“We believe that if we can have a unified stance and make an agreement with the PUK, we can be stronger in Baghdad and our requests will be implemented better,” Mirkhan said, expressing hope that they can still form the tenth cabinet with the PUK.

He added that KDP President Masoud Barzani “has made sure that we set party interests aside.”

The KDP and PUK had said in the summer that they were close to reactivating parliament and forming a cabinet, but tensions resurfaced during campaigning for the Iraqi legislative polls last month.

Hoshyar Zebari, a senior KDP official, told Rudaw on Thursday that if the political parties fail to form a new government, “certainly another election might be held.”

Kurdistan Region Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani, who is also a senior PUK member, on Sunday dismissed claims that his party has withdrawn from talks.

“We as the PUK are ready to restart talks to reach a final conclusion to form the tenth cabinet of the Kurdistan Regional Government,” he told reporters.

Following the 2021 federal elections, the KDP and PUK fought over the position of the Iraqi president - which has been traditionally held by a Kurd from the latter. The PUK won the race. This year, a similar scenario is expected to be repeated as officials from both parties have hinted at their parties’ desire to field candidates for the mostly-ceremonial position.

https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/23112025

[Anthea]

Kurdish, Coalition Commanders
Discuss Peshmerga Unification

Senior officials from the Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Peshmerga met with the Coalition’s military leadership on Monday to review ongoing reforms, sector command restructuring, and efforts to unify Peshmerga forces under a single ministry framework

According to a statement from the Ministry of Peshmerga, Lieutenant General Issa Ozeir, Chief of Staff of the Ministry, met with Colonel Fitz Gerald, Commander of Coalition Forces in the Kurdistan Region, along with an accompanying delegation.

The meeting focused on the current status of the Peshmerga forces and ways to enhance coordination between both sides.

A central point of discussion was the reform agenda—specifically, restructuring the sector command system and the next steps toward unifying the various Peshmerga units under the ministry’s authority.

Both sides stressed that continued Coalition support and coordination remain critical for strengthening and modernizing the Peshmerga.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further develop military cooperation in the coming phase.

Reforming and professionalizing the Peshmerga has been a long-standing priority for both the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and its international partners.

Since 2016, the US-led Coalition, Germany, the UK, and other allies have supported a comprehensive reform program aimed at unifying the two main party-aligned forces—Unit 70 (linked to the PUK) and Unit 80 (linked to the KDP)—into a single, apolitical, and modernized force under the Ministry of Peshmerga Affairs.

In recent years, both Washington and European partners have intensified pressure on Kurdish leaders to accelerate unification, arguing that a cohesive Peshmerga is essential for long-term regional stability and for maintaining gains made against Islamic State remnants.

Coalition commanders routinely meet with Peshmerga leadership to monitor reform steps, improve operational coordination, and support ongoing training and modernization programs across the Kurdistan Region.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/899924