The journey was perilous, with families traversing treacherous terrain on foot, braving harsh conditions and constant fear. Yet, despite the hardships, their resolve remained unbroken, fueled by a collective yearning for freedom and justice.
As the Kurdish community worldwide marks the 33rd anniversary of one of its most pivotal moments, the memory of the mass migration of millions of Kurds stands as a testament to their resilience and unwavering pursuit of freedom.
On this day, we honor the sacrifices made by countless individuals who dared to defy tyranny and oppression, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Kurdistan.
The events of March 5, 1991, serve as a reminder of the courage displayed by the Kurdish nation in the face of adversity. Rising up against the injustices perpetrated by the defunct Baathist regime, Kurds from all walks of life united in a courageous struggle for liberation.
With remarkable speed, they reclaimed swathes of southern Kurdistan, shaking the foundations of tyranny.
However, the euphoria of liberation was short-lived. With the defeat of the Baathist regime in Kuwait, remnants of its forces turned their sights on Kurdistan, unleashing a wave of violence and oppression.
Tanks rumbled through Kurdish cities, artillery shells rained down on villages, and soldiers descended upon civilians with ruthless brutality.
Faced with such barbarity, millions of Kurds were forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge across the Iraqi-Iranian-Turkish border.
The journey was perilous, with families traversing treacherous terrain on foot, braving harsh conditions and constant fear. Yet, despite the hardships, their resolve remained unbroken, fueled by a collective yearning for freedom and justice.
The world watched in horror as images of the mass migration flashed across screens, bearing witness to the plight of the Kurdish people. International outcry echoed through diplomatic corridors, culminating in the landmark UN Security Council Resolution 688, which established a safe zone for Kurds in Iraqi Kurdistan north of the 36th parallel.
With the path cleared for their return, millions of Kurds embarked on the journey back to their homeland, determined to rebuild their lives and reclaim their dignity. Their resilience and determination paved the way for the establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government and Parliament, marking a new chapter in Kurdish history.
As we commemorate this solemn anniversary, let us pay tribute to the martyrs who sacrificed everything for the cause of freedom. Their legacy lives on in the hearts of every Kurd, serving as a beacon of hope for future generations. Today, we stand united in our commitment to upholding the values of justice, democracy, and freedom, ensuring that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten.
Kurdistan 24
