Barzani commemorates victims of 2004 Erbil suicide bombings

ERBIL — Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani on Sunday issued a statement remembering the anniversary of the Feb. 1, 2004, terrorist attacks in Erbil, which targeted the headquarters of the Kurdistan Democratic Party and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan.

In his statement, Barzani said, “Today, we honor and remember the victims of the February 1, 2004, terrorist attacks in Erbil,” adding that those killed “became martyrs while celebrating Eid, a celebration of devotion and love.”

On Feb. 1, 2004, two suicide bombers attacked the headquarters of the two leading Kurdish political parties in Erbil. The attacks occurred in the morning of Eid al-Adha while party leaders and supporters were gathered and welcoming visitors.

Barzani described the victims of the attacks as “a symbol of coexistence, unity, and sacrifice made by the people of Kurdistan for freedom and liberty,” saying that commemorating them is “not just a simple act of remembrance but a reiteration of our commitment to the principles they sacrificed their lives for.”

The explosions killed more than 100 people and injured over 200 others, including senior regional officials, party leaders, security personnel and civilians. The attacks were widely attributed to Al-Qaeda-linked militants and were part of broader insurgent violence in Iraq at the time.

He said the anniversary should serve as an opportunity to preserve political unity and protect the region’s achievements. “The best way to honor the sacrifices of the February 1 martyrs, and all martyrs of Kurdistan, is to safeguard our hard-won achievements, strengthen our unity, and stand united across all political parties,” the statement said.

Barzani also called on political forces to move beyond divisions, saying the commemoration should be used “as a chance to rise above our divisions, and build a brighter future for generations to come.”

The president concluded by paying tribute to those killed in the attacks and expressing respect for their families. “We pay tribute to the martyrs of the February 1 attack and all the fallen heroes of Kurdistan,” he said. “Our deepest respect goes to their families and loved ones.”