Relatives of woman who died receiving wrong blood type protest delays in accountability

ZAKHO — Relatives of Shilan Ismail, a 38-year-old woman who died after receiving the wrong blood type during childbirth at Zakho’s Maternity and Pediatric Hospital, gathered Monday to protest what they described as delays in legal proceedings more than a year after her death.

Ismail died on May 17, 2025, after remaining in critical condition for 17 days following a C-section at the hospital. Her family says she was mistakenly transfused with A+ blood instead of her correct blood type, B+. A committee formed by health authorities concluded that nine people had been negligent in the case, according to relatives, who said they retained documents related to the investigation.

“One year and 18 days have passed, and no legal measures have yet been taken against those responsible for the negligence,” Haji Yasin Guli, the brother of Shilan’s husband, told 964media. “There is pressure on us and on the court as well, which is why the trial is being delayed and not proceeding.”

The family’s lawyer, Sihad Ismail, told 964media that “the case is proceeding in a normal way” but acknowledged the family’s frustration. “Shilan’s family feels the case is being diverted, but we assure them that we will not give up until those responsible for the negligence receive their punishment,” he said.

The case drew widespread attention in the Kurdistan Region after medical staff confirmed a blood transfusion error occurred during surgery. Health officials acknowledged one incorrect unit of blood had been administered, while the family disputed that account and said a larger amount of mismatched blood had been given. Zakho police had previously confirmed a formal case had been opened by the public prosecutor and investigating judge.