On Monday, the Presidency of the Republic of Iraq called on the Iraqi Parliament to vote on the Halabja Province Bill to honor the city of Halabja and its people, who suffered immensely during the infamous chemical attack of 1988. This call came during a solemn moment of silence and mourning to mark the anniversary of the bombing.
In a heartfelt address, President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid remembered the tragedy of Halabja and the broader scope of crimes committed by the Baath regime against the Iraqi people. He specifically referenced the Halabja chemical attack, the Anfal campaign, mass graves, and the targeted killings of scientists and national figures, all of which exemplified the brutal repression inflicted on Iraqis during that period.
The Presidency’s statement expressed a collective rejection of injustice, reaffirming the unity of all Iraqis in condemning the atrocities committed by the regime. The Halabja attack was described as a form of brutality that exceeded even the horrific acts committed by the Nazis during the Second World War, and it was framed as an attack not only on Iraq but on humanity itself.
International Appeal for Action
The Presidency also made an urgent appeal to the international community, stressing the need for stronger measures to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and to halt the spread of global conflicts and wars. It emphasized the necessity of providing continuous support for the families of victims and the reconstruction of the areas affected by the chemical attacks.
Additionally, the statement contained a direct appeal to the Iraqi Parliament, urging lawmakers to pass the Halabja Province Bill. The bill, which is designed to formally recognize the sacrifices of Halabja’s people, has been an important topic of discussion. The Presidency called on political forces to unite in support of the bill as a gesture of respect and recognition for the martyrs of Halabja.
The continued push for this legislation reflects Iraq’s ongoing efforts to ensure that the victims of the chemical attack and other atrocities under the Baath regime are not forgotten, and that their sacrifices are officially honored.
