Since yesterday evening, the security situation in Sulaymaniyah Governorate has become increasingly unstable. Sulaymaniyah security forces stormed the headquarters of the People’s Front Party, leading to violent clashes that lasted for three hours. As a result, the party’s leader, Lahur Sheikh, three of his siblings, and dozens of party members were arrested. Dozens of armed individuals from both sides have reportedly been killed or injured in the violence.
In a concerning escalation, a security force in Sulaymaniyah also targeted the media outlet affiliated with the People’s Front Party—Zoom News. Since the attack, the outlet’s broadcasting has been halted. Additionally, Zoom News journalist Mohammed Dilshad was arrested at 2:00 AM, and his whereabouts remain unknown. All of the media’s communication platforms have also reportedly been hacked.
CPT Iraqi Kurdistan strongly condemns the targeting of media outlets and journalists during times of political conflict. We call for the immediate protection of journalists and civilians and urge all parties to respect press freedom and human rights during this critical time.
