Erbil, Kurdistan Region – Masoud Barzani, President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), stated that the recent political changes in Syria were anticipated but expressed concern over the lack of reassuring signals from Damascus toward the Kurdish population.

In an exclusive interview with Shams TV, Barzani remarked, “The developments in Syria were expected, though not at this speed or manner. This marks a major transformation and a turning point in the region’s history.”

While acknowledging that the new Syrian leadership has sent positive messages to the Kurdistan Region, Barzani noted the absence of direct communication. “There has been no official contact between the Kurdistan Region and Syria’s new leadership, and they have yet to send a genuine message of peace and understanding to the Kurds,” he said.

Barzani emphasized efforts to unify Kurdish factions in Rojava (Syrian Kurdistan) around a common stance. “This is why we have worked to bring the Kurds in Rojava together under legitimate demands,” he added.

Barzani also reflected on the long history of the Kurdish struggle, tracing his family’s role back to Sheikh Abdul Salam Barzani, who fought for Kurdish rights in the early 20th century. “Our family’s struggle began with Sheikh Abdul Salam Barzani, who confronted the Ottomans in the Battle of Shadara in 1914,” he said.

Highlighting Kurdish resilience, Barzani stated, “The people of Kurdistan have endured immense suffering and major tragedies, but they never lost hope. Their sacrifices have brought us to where we are today.”

Barzani outlined the economic and security challenges the Kurdistan Region has faced since 2014, including budget cuts by the Iraqi federal government, the war against ISIS, falling oil prices, and the COVID-19 pandemic. “These crises have hindered the region’s progress,” he said.

Reaffirming his stance on self-determination, Barzani declared, “I have always believed in the Kurdish people’s right to determine their own destiny. This is a natural and fundamental right for all peoples, including the Kurds.”

The interview underscored Barzani’s call for unity among Kurds and his continued advocacy for Kurdish rights amid regional upheavals.