Felling of centuries-old tree in Sulaymaniyah sparks outrage

SULAYMANIYAH — A resident has been arrested for cutting down an ancient tree estimated to be over 200 years old in the Barzinja area of Sulaymaniyah governorate. The tree, considered a symbol of natural heritage and an integral part of the region’s scenic beauty, was felled in an act described as reckless and unjustifiable.

Heman Kamarkhan, spokesperson for the Forest and Environment Police of Sulaymaniyah, told 964media: “After receiving information from the Barzinja Forest Police unit, it was confirmed that a centuries-old tree, estimated to be over 200 years old, had been cut down. An investigation was immediately launched, resulting in the arrest of a suspect who was also found in possession of a motorcycle.”

Kamarkhan revealed that the suspect is currently in custody and undergoing legal procedures, with further investigations underway. “We can assure the public that the punishment for this individual will be harsher than that for those who cut down ordinary trees. More details will be shared within the next two days.”

Authorities in Sulaymaniyah announced yesterday that 37 individuals have been arrested over the past month for illegally cutting down trees in protected forest areas. The arrests were part of an extensive crackdown targeting illegal logging activities across multiple regions, including Barzinja, Said Sadiq, Sitak, Mawat, Penjwin, Gapilon, and Dukan, according to the Directorate of Forest and Environment Police.

Kamarkhan emphasized the importance of environmental preservation, highlighting the direct connection between a clean and healthy environment and public health. “Protecting our natural resources is a shared responsibility, and every individual must act with accountability. Our forces across all regions remain steadfast in their mission to prevent violations, confront environmental threats, and safeguard our natural heritage.”

The Kurdistan Region has witnessed severe deforestation over the past several decades, losing nearly 50% of its forests in the last 70 years. This alarming decline stems from a combination of illegal logging, intensified forest fires driven by prolonged summer droughts, and military operations along Iraq’s northern borders. Notably, the region contains 90% of Iraq’s remaining forests.

Traders and individuals frequently cut down trees to produce charcoal, often disregarding environmental regulations. While legal penalties exist, inconsistent enforcement in the past has allowed these practices to persist. Furthermore, ongoing military activities, especially by Turkey, have significantly contributed to forest degradation.