Erbil, Kurdistan Region – The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Council of Ministers convened on Wednesday under the leadership of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani and with the attendance of Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani to discuss critical financial, administrative, and regional issues.

Prime Minister Barzani addressed the ongoing financial dispute with the federal government in Baghdad, emphasizing the KRG’s efforts to resolve the issue of salary cuts and the withholding of the Kurdistan Region’s financial entitlements by the Federal Ministry of Finance.

Barzani revealed that the KRG had submitted a formal letter to the Federal Court challenging the legality and constitutionality of Baghdad’s decision.

“We hope the Federal Court will issue a fair decision in response to our letter and serve the interests of the people of Kurdistan,” he stated. “The KRG has fulfilled all its constitutional obligations and expects the same respect for constitutional rights, including the disbursement of financial entitlements.”

The Council also discussed recent regional tensions and their potential impact on the Kurdistan Region. Reiterating its longstanding stance, the KRG emphasized its opposition to war and conflict, positioning itself as a stabilizing force in the region.

“The Kurdistan Region has always been a factor for peace, stability, and security and will not pose a threat to any neighboring country or party,” the Council stated. It expressed support for dialogue and peaceful negotiations to resolve conflicts, ensuring stability across Iraq, the Kurdistan Region, and the wider Middle East.

In a separate decision, the Council approved Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed’s proposal to extend the 20% reduction on traffic violation fines for another six months, effective from July 1 to December 31, 2025.

The Council also approved a proposal by Health Minister Saman Barzinji and Cabinet Secretary Amanj Rahim to appoint graduates of the Public Medical College based on Ministry of Health criteria. The Ministries of Finance, Economy, and Health, along with the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers, will oversee the administrative process.