Sulaymaniyah: The Iraqi government has expressed its regret over the incidents in Sulaymaniyah Governorate, which resulted in the deaths and injuries of a number of people, stressing that it will spare no effort to prevent sedition in all areas of Iraq, including the Kurdistan Region.
According to Qatar News Agency, Sabah Al Numan, spokesman for the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces and Prime Minister of Iraq, Mohammed Shia Al Sudani, stated in a press release that the federal government emphasizes the need for competent authorities to follow legal and judicial measures as per the provisions of the constitution, aligning with the principles of justice and the rule of law.
Sulaymaniyah city experienced significant security presence and road closures on Thursday night before armed clashes erupted between security forces and elements loyal to Lahur Sheikh Jangi, leader of the People's Front Party. These clashes resulted in the deaths of at least three individuals and injuries to approximately ten others.
Al Numan underscored the necessity of implementing legal procedures impartially and transparently, avoiding any armed demonstrations or intimidation of citizens. He insisted that law enforcement should be conducted while preserving human dignity and rights.
The Iraqi government affirmed its commitment to safeguarding the security of citizens in the region and throughout all Iraqi governorates, highlighting it as a national and moral duty. The government stated it will make every effort to prevent strife, promote social peace, and consolidate stability, emphasizing the security and safety of Sulaymaniyah's residents and the broader region.
Iraqi security forces arrested Lahur Sheikh Jangi and his brothers, including Polad Waso, after storming the Lale Zar Hotel, where they and their supporters were situated. The arrests came after hours of violent clashes involving Sheikh Jangi's bodyguards, counter-terrorism and commando units, and members of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK).
The Sulaymaniyah Security Investigation Court issued an arrest warrant for Lahur Sheikh Jangi under Article 56 of the Iraqi Penal Code concerning issues related to security and public order.
As tensions rose, the city experienced two drone attacks and a shooting in the Dabashan area, where Bafel Talabani, leader of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, resides.
The Kurdistan Region Presidency issued a statement earlier emphasizing the rule of law, the protection of Sulaymaniyah's security and stability, and the preservation of citizens' lives and property. The statement urged that all disputes be resolved within the legal framework without violence, extending condolences to the victims' families and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.
KRG Prime Minister Masrour Barzani called for restraint and an end to the clashes, warning that current tensions threaten the region's security and stability. He emphasized resolving disputes through legal channels and affirmed his efforts to prevent further bloodshed and violence.
Lahur Sheikh Jangi, who was previously co-chair of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) before being ousted in July 2021 due to internal party conflicts, founded the People's Front Party. The party participated for the first time in the 2024 Kurdistan parliamentary elections, securing two seats.