DUHOK, Kurdistan Region — Ongoing Turkish airstrikes, aimed at securing the country’s border, have resulted in widespread destruction, civilian casualties, and the evacuation of dozens of villages. Families of the victims are urgently calling for an immediate end to the hostilities between Turkey and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) to prevent further civilian deaths.
Zakiya Mohammed, whose three brothers were killed in the Turkish airstrikes, voiced her suffering. “Regardless of whether this conflict involves Turkey or the PKK, they must limit their hostilities to their territories in northern Kurdistan and cease conducting military operations on our soil in Iraqi Kurdistan,” she pleaded.
“I urge them to stop sacrificing the sons of poor families and the innocent Peshmergas of Kurdistan, which has led to thousands of mothers losing their sons. Three of my brothers have been martyred in this conflict.”
Turkish airstrikes in Duhok's border areas have claimed the lives of villagers and its recent military opertations have crippled the region's tourism sector, halting its economic growth, locals tell Zoom News.
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The airstrikes have not only caused significant destruction but have also profoundly impacted the lives of local residents. An activist highlighted that many people in the affected areas depend on agriculture for their livelihoods.
Ahmad Shamki, an activist, stated, “Today marks several years since residents in this region have endured significant losses due to the ongoing conflict, especially among civilians. As a result, approximately 150 to 160 villages in the area have been evacuated.”
Nerwa and Rekan, once renowned tourist destinations, have suffered greatly. Previously, these areas experienced significant development and attracted visitors from both the Kurdistan Region and Iraqi provinces due to their beautiful nature.
However, their roads are now blocked, causing substantial harm to these tourist spots and halting further economic growth in the area. Iqbal Doski, a journalist, commented, “The blockade of village roads in the Shiladze sub-district has caused extensive damage to the local economy.”
