Haditha hosts first ‘Swatir Al-Salam’ marathon, celebrating peace and resilience

ANBAR — A total of 300 participants competed in the first edition of the “Swatir Al-Salam” marathon, a 6-kilometer race along the road from the Al-Sumoud roundabout to the western gate of Haditha, a former front line during the clashes with the Islamic State group in 2014.

“Swatir Al-Salam,” meaning “Peace Barriers,” symbolizes the transformation of barriers once used for defense into a message of unity and peace. The marathon honored Haditha’s resilience during the conflict with ISIS, paying tribute to the city’s role in defending against terrorism.

The Islamic State, which declared a self-claimed caliphate in 2014, was driven out of Iraq in 2017 by Iraqi forces, Peshmerga, and support from the U.S.-led coalition.

Organized by the Anbar Youth for Peace team, the race saw Ahmed Mathan from Ana district claim first place, Tarek Taleb from Rawah district take second, and Yusuf Juma from Haditha district secure third. Prizes were distributed in the presence of officials, military leaders, and athletes from across Anbar.

“We came to the Swatir Al-Salam marathon from the Al-Sumoud area to the western barrier, the front line against ISIS attacks in 2014 and beyond,” Abbas Hussein, qaymaqam (district official) of Haditha, told 964media. “The people of Haditha showed unparalleled courage and sacrifice, defending the city. Today, we stand here to send a message of peace, demonstrating that Haditha remains strong and unshaken.”

Imad Al-Mashhadani, head of Anbar Youth and Sports, highlighted the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by Haditha and other Iraqi provinces. He noted the large participation of officials, athletes, and representatives from across the province, supported by the United Nations Development Programme, the Anbar government, and the Haditha Youth and Sports Department.

Nooruddin Al-Hamdani, the event’s coordinator, emphasized the marathon’s significance. “The idea behind this marathon is to symbolize peace and to honor the sacrifices made by Haditha’s people in the fight against terrorism,” he said.

Ahmed Mathan, the race’s winner, expressed gratitude to Haditha’s organizers and participants, noting the unity among those from various parts of Anbar. “I came from Ana and was honored to win first place,” he said, celebrating the collaborative spirit of the event.