Erbil, Kurdistan Region – Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani issued an official message congratulating the Yazidi community in Kurdistan and worldwide on the occasion of Çilê Havînê, the sacred Forty Days of Summer festival.

In his statement, the Prime Minister extended "warmest congratulations to all Yazidi brothers and sisters," specifically addressing the Yazidi Mir Hazem Tahsin Beg, Baba Sheikh, and members of the Yazidi Spiritual Council. He expressed hopes that the festival would bring "joy, tranquility, prosperity and divine blessings" to the community.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed the KRG's commitment to supporting Yazidi rights, stating: "We renew the Kurdistan Regional Government's steadfast commitment to supporting their legitimate rights, aspirations and demands."

Çilê Havînê, observed from July 20 to August 28, represents one of the most important periods in the Yazidi religious calendar. The festival includes special prayers, fasting, and pilgrimage to holy sites, particularly the Lalish Temple.

Local authorities have implemented enhanced security measures across Yazidi areas, including Sinjar, to ensure peaceful observances. Community leaders report higher participation this year compared to previous years, with many displaced families returning to their ancestral lands for the celebrations.

The KRG's message comes as part of ongoing efforts to support Yazidi recovery following the 2014 genocide. Recent initiatives include:

Reconstruction projects in Sinjar
Enhanced security cooperation
Cultural preservation programs
Compensation for affected families

The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) issued a statement welcoming the KRG's support for minority rights, while calling for continued efforts to address outstanding Yazidi concerns regarding justice and reparations.

Community leaders have expressed appreciation for the KRG's message, with Yazidi Spiritual Council representative Pir Ali Ismail noting: "Such recognition of our religious observances helps strengthen coexistence and reconciliation efforts."

The festival continues through August 28, with major ceremonies planned for the final days at Lalish Temple, the holiest site in Yazidism.