Masoud Barzani

In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate

The world at large is aware that Erbil has been subjected to dozens of unjustified missile and drone attacks since 2020 by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard and its allies. These attacks represent a clear injustice against the Kurdish people. The perpetrators of these crimes know very well that their slander, excuses and allegations have no basis, and in order to cover up their own issues, they carry out this aggression against Erbil and the people of Kurdistan.

Our forbearance has limits. In their latest attack last night, they slaughtered an innocent family in Erbil, which we strongly condemn. There is no doubt that this attack is neither brave nor courageous, but rather shameful.

Allow me to speak to the Iranian people whom we have always respected and have extended a hand of friendship and brotherhood to them. I want to assure them that the excuses provided by the attackers for their crimes against Erbil and the Kurdish people are completely baseless . I ask you, if the attackers allow you, to come and see the truth with your own eyes in Erbil and see how the perpetrators have treated the people of Kurdistan and that the regime’s claims are unjustified.

They cannot continue this oppression forever, and we, on the other hand cannot remain silent against this oppression and injustice. My message to the perpetrators of the Iranian missile and drone attacks is this: the killing of our women, children and civilians is not a matter of pride. They can kill us, but rest assured that our will shall remain unwavering. The people of Kurdistan depend on His Almighty and the legitimacy of their cause, and God is indeed much greater than any oppressor or any force.

Masoud Barzani
January 16, 2024