The political changes in Syria have created an important opportunity to develop an appropriate roadmap toward a settlement

Message from President Masoud Barzani

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‎In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

‎The political changes in Syria have created an important opportunity to develop an appropriate roadmap toward a settlement—one that ensures respect for the legitimate rights of the Kurdish people in Syria and addresses all outstanding and disputed issues. From this standpoint, we have made tireless efforts with all parties, based on our firm belief that disputes and problems must be resolved through dialogue and peaceful means.

‎However, the dangerous situation—marked by ongoing fighting and violence in the city of Aleppo—is deeply alarming and threatens the lives of civilians and innocent people, amid reports and fears of ethnic cleansing targeting Kurds in the area.

‎Accordingly, I call on those in authority in Syria not to turn political differences into ethnic conflict, and not to allow Kurdish citizens in Aleppo to be subjected to pressure, oppression, or displacement from the land of their forefathers, or to become victims of ethnic cleansing.

‎I also call on Kurdish parties—particularly the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)—to do everything within their power to halt the fighting and clashes, prevent further bloodshed, and work seriously, together with the other side, to adopt dialogue and negotiation as the path to resolving problems.

‎Political disagreements can’t justify endangering civilian lives or permitting ethnic cleansing against the Kurdish people. Such acts constitute a crime against humanity and carry grave consequences that must not be taken lightly.

‎Masoud Barzani

‎January 7, 2026

‎⁦‪@masoud_barzan