Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

Kurdistan Region of Iraq

07 February 2024 · 6 other contributors · 9,445 words

Opened by Jack Lopresti Con Filton and Bradley Stoke

Responding minister: Leo Docherty

ClimateForeign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Jack Lopresti raised concerns about kurdistan region of iraq in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • MP expresses concern over historical mistreatment of Kurds in Iraq, including genocidal acts and ongoing challenges.
  • MP highlights Iran's influence through proxy militias and terrorist organisations as a destabilising factor.
  • MP requests the government to provide military assistance and training for peshmerga and to advocate for diplomatic engagement.

Key requests to Government

The MP asks the Minister to comment on the unresolved issues regarding disputed territories such as Kirkuk and the need for greater attention. He also requests support in providing military assistance and training for the peshmerga, and advocates for continued diplomatic engagement to strengthen bilateral relations.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Jack Lopresti Con Filton and Bradley Stoke

The MP is concerned about the historical mistreatment of Kurds in Iraq, including genocidal acts by Saddam Hussein's regime. He highlights the difficulties faced by Iraqi Kurdistan since the creation of an autonomous region, including civil war, budget cuts, ISIS attacks, and ongoing tensions with Baghdad. The MP also expresses worry over Iran's influence in destabilising the region through proxy militias and terrorist organisations, as well as the lack of a stable relationship between Baghdad and the KRG.

Other contributors (6)
  • Brendan O'Hara SNP Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber

    The hon. Member Brendan O'Hara acknowledged the importance of the Kurdistan region's autonomy within Iraq and expressed support for Kurdish self-determination. He highlighted the 2017 referendum in which 92% supported independence on a turnout of 72%. Concerns were raised about tensions between the KRG and Baghdad, with recent attacks by Iran-affiliated groups adding to instability. O'Hara also discussed internal challenges such as refugees from Daesh and Yazidis living in dire conditions in IDP camps for nearly a decade.

  • Chris Stephens SNP Glasgow South West

    The hon. Gentleman's knowledge of Kurdistan is appreciated, agreeing on showing solidarity against Iranian attacks and recognising the Kurdish people's role in fighting Daesh. Celebrated the election of Councillor Roza Salih, Scotland's first refugee councillor with Kurdish roots, highlighting her proud background and contribution to Glasgow.

  • Gregory Campbell DUP East Londonderry

    Does the hon. Gentleman agree that we must not allow elements in Iraq and other locations to replace democratic accountability with values that devalue regions like Kurdistan.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    Jim Shannon highlighted the importance of the UK's relationship with the Kurdistan region, particularly in terms of freedom of religion or belief. He raised concerns about the displacement and persecution faced by religious minorities such as Christians, Yazidis, and Sunni Muslims due to military strikes and territorial disputes. Shannon questioned how the UK has attempted to address these displacements and whether there have been discussions between Turkey and the KRG.

  • John Martin McDonnell Lab Hayes and Harlington

    Mr. McDonnell expressed concern about the teachers' strike in Kurdistan, noting that teachers have not been paid for four months, leading to severe financial hardship. He also raised issues regarding journalists facing suppression of dissent and arbitrary arrests, with some receiving up to six years in prison without fair trials.

  • Wayne David Lab Pontypool

    Discussed the importance of developing bilateral relationships and educational links, mentioned oil disputes between Iraqi Kurdistan and Baghdad, highlighted corruption issues, expressed concern over regional instability due to Turkish military actions against PKK, and inquired about recent Iranian missile attacks on Kurdish territories.

Government Response

Leo Docherty

I am grateful to my hon. Friend the Member for Filton and Bradley Stoke for securing this important debate on the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The UK's connection to the region dates back more than a century, and we continue to work closely towards a secure, stable, and thriving KRI within a peaceful and prosperous Iraq. I extended deepest condolences over the outrageous strikes on Irbil in January, condemning Iran for targeting innocent civilians and violating Iraq's sovereignty. There has been an increase in regional attacks by Iran-aligned militia groups since October 2023, with more than 160 incidents recorded; this is a cause of grave concern. Regarding elections in the KRI, their delay is disappointing, but we hope they can occur before the Independent High Electoral Commission's mandate expires on July 7th. We are also concerned about the erosion of semi-autonomy since the unilateral referendum in 2017 and the breakdown in relations between political parties. On media freedom, restrictions have been raised with KRG officials, and UK diplomats continue to advocate for greater media freedom. Concerning oil exports through the Iraq-Turkey pipeline, we hope for a sustainable resolution as it has significant political and economic implications. We support the Iraqi security forces and Peshmerga in their efforts against Daesh, noting the importance of the higher military commission process led by the US and Iraq. The UK is committed to supporting Yazidi survivors through mental health and psychological support initiatives, including £100,000 this year for these services. On aid, we have provided over £400 million since 2014, helping displaced communities in the KRI with food and healthcare. We are also building capacity to mitigate climate change effects like water scarcity, which impacts agriculture in Kurdistan. In conclusion, we advocate for Kurdish unity, democracy, and peace, encouraging co-operation between Baghdad and Irbil while supporting counter-terrorism efforts and measures against climate change.

▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy