On the 34th anniversary of the historic 1991 Kurdish uprising, President Masoud Barzani extended heartfelt congratulations to the families of martyrs, the valiant Peshmerga forces, and all freedom fighters and patriots across Kurdistan. In a powerful statement commemorating the occasion, Barzani hailed the uprising as one of the most significant achievements in Kurdistan’s history, attributing its success to the Kurdish people’s unyielding will for freedom, the bravery of the Peshmerga, and the unity of the Kurdish liberation movement.

“The uprising was a clear message against oppression and tyranny, proving that the people of Kurdistan are alive and determined to break free from the chains of injustice despite all forms of suppression and intimidation,” Barzani declared. He emphasized that the fate of occupation and despotism is inevitable collapse, while the will and determination of the Kurdish people will always prevail.

The 1991 uprising, which erupted in the aftermath of the Gulf War, marked a defining moment in Kurdistan’s history. After decades of persecution under Saddam Hussein’s Ba’athist regime, the Kurdish people rose in mass protests, reclaiming their cities and villages from Iraqi forces. The revolt ultimately led to the establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and paved the way for the region’s self-rule.

A Legacy of Sacrifice and Unity

President Barzani underscored the enduring values of the uprising—peace, brotherhood, and coexistence—and paid tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Kurdistan’s freedom and dignity. “Their legacy remains a guiding light for future generations,” he said, saluting their courage and resilience.

The uprising not only demonstrated the Kurdish people’s ability to overcome decades of oppression but also laid the foundation for Kurdistan’s democratic institutions. It reshaped the region’s political and social landscape, inspiring a new era of self-determination and governance.

President Barzani: A Lifetime of Leadership

President Masoud Barzani, a central figure in Kurdish politics, has dedicated his life to the Kurdish liberation movement. Born into a family deeply committed to Kurdish rights, Barzani followed in the footsteps of his father, the iconic leader Mustafa Barzani, joining the Peshmerga at a young age. Over the decades, he played a pivotal role in the Kurdish resistance against successive Iraqi regimes, becoming a symbol of perseverance and leadership.

As President of the Kurdistan Region from 2005 to 2017, Barzani championed democratic governance, economic development, and the strengthening of Kurdistan’s international relations. His leadership during critical moments, including the fight against ISIS and efforts to secure greater recognition for Kurdistan, solidified his legacy as a steadfast defender of Kurdish rights.

A Timeless Message for the Future

As Kurdistan commemorates the 34th anniversary of the uprising, Barzani’s words serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience that have defined the Kurdish struggle. The uprising was not merely a revolt against tyranny; it was a declaration of the Kurdish people’s unyielding spirit and their right to self-determination.

With the region facing ongoing challenges, the legacy of the 1991 uprising remains a source of inspiration. It reinforces the need for unity, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to freedom. As President Barzani stated, “The will of the Kurdish people will always prevail, and their dreams of justice and dignity will never be extinguished.”

The anniversary serves as a moment of reflection and pride for the people of Kurdistan, honoring the sacrifices of the past while looking forward to a future built on the principles of peace, brotherhood, and coexistence.