KRG - US NEWSLETTER APRIL 2026 | | |
MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS FROM
THE KRG REPRESENTATION IN THE US
| | Despite the Ceasefire, the Kurdistan Region Continues to be Attacked | | |
Since February 28, the Kurdistan Region has been attacked more than 800 times by drones and missiles, despite not being a party to the conflict. According to KRG data, these attacks have left 20 people dead, 123 wounded, and caused widespread damage to civilian infrastructure, impacting homes, businesses, and everyday life across the Region.
As communities work to recover, ongoing insecurity continues to strain both public services and economic stability. The KRG has called on Baghdad to ensure accountability for US-sanctioned terrorist groups responsible for these attacks, stressing the need to safeguard civilians.
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| | Building a Greener Future: Sustainability Efforts Expand Across the Kurdistan Region | |
Despite ongoing security challenges, the Kurdistan Regional Government continues to advance efforts to ensure growth remains sustainable. From environmental protection campaigns at key tourist sites to large-scale green infrastructure projects in Erbil, the Region is steadily integrating sustainability into its broader development approach.
At the same time, long-term initiatives such as the Green Belt Project and energy reforms under the Runaki program are working to improve air quality, expand green space, and reduce emissions, positioning the Kurdistan Region as a proactive leader in environmental resilience.
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| | KRG Engagement with U.S. Policymakers During Ongoing Conflict | | |
Amid heightened tensions during the U.S.–Iranian conflict, the Kurdistan Regional Government Representation in Washington maintained steady engagement with U.S. officials to ensure that the implications for the Kurdistan Region remained clearly understood. These efforts focused on reinforcing the Region’s role as a stable and reliable partner, while emphasizing the urgent need to safeguard its security and economic resilience during a volatile period.
Prime Minister Masrour Barzani held a series of high-level calls with senior U.S. cabinet officials, including Secretary Marco Rubio, Secretary Chris Wright, and Secretary Doug Burgum. He also engaged with congressional leaders including House Foreign Affairs Chairman, Brian Mast and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, H.E. Michael Waltz. These discussions centered on urgent air defense requirements, the continuity of oil exports, and the protection of critical infrastructure in the Kurdistan Region.
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The President of the Kurdistan Region, H.E. Nechirvan Barzani also held a call with Congressman Abraham Hamadeh to discuss the regional situation.
The conversations addressed broader regional energy security, underscoring the Kurdistan Region’s strategic importance as a dependable energy partner. Kurdish leadership highlighted the need for coordinated efforts to ensure uninterrupted energy flows, strengthen infrastructure resilience, and mitigate risks posed by regional instability.
These engagements reflect the Kurdistan Region’s proactive diplomacy and its continued commitment to close coordination with the United States in advancing shared security and economic priorities.
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| Honoring Colonel Richard Naab: A Lifelong Friend of the Kurdistan Region | | |
Colonel (Ret.) Richard Maurice Naab was laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, marking the passing of a decorated U.S. Army officer whose legacy extends far beyond his distinguished service.
On behalf of H.E. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, KRG Representative to the U.S., Treefa Aziz and Senior Advisor to the PM Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman attended the ceremonies and extended Kurdistan's leadership condolences to the family. During the eulogy, the Colonel’s steadfast service to and deep love for the Kurdish people, as well as the lasting impact of his support over many years, were recognized.
For the Kurdistan Region, Colonel Naab is remembered not only as a soldier, but as a steadfast ally during one of the most defining moments in Kurdish history. During the 1991 humanitarian crisis following the Kurdish uprising, he played a key role in Operation Provide Comfort, a U.S.-led mission that helped deliver aid and establish a safe haven for over one million displaced Kurds. His leadership and compassion during that time left a lasting imprint, forming deep and enduring ties with the Region.
Even after his military career, Colonel Naab remained closely connected to the Kurdistan Region, continuing to advocate for its people and support its development. His passing has been met with widespread condolences from Kurdish leaders, reflecting the enduring impact of a man who stood with the Kurdish people in their darkest hour, and remained a friend ever since.
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| KURDISH CULTURE AND SOCIETY | | Remembering the Anfal Genocide | | |
Earlier this month, April 14 marked the anniversary of the Anfal Genocide, one of the most devastating chapters in modern Kurdish history. Carried out between 1987 and 1988, the campaign resulted in the killing or disappearance of more than 182,000 Kurds and the destruction of over 4,000 villages, leaving a lasting impact on communities across the Kurdistan Region.
Recognized as genocide, Anfal was a systematic effort to dismantle Kurdish society through coordinated military operations, chemical attacks, and forced displacement. Decades later, many families continue to seek justice and the remains of their loved ones, reflecting the enduring human impact of the campaign.
The anniversary serves as a moment of remembrance and reflection, underscoring the importance of preserving historical memory and ensuring such atrocities are never repeated.
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- International Airlines to Resume Flights to Erbil Airport Next Month
Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and Qatar Airways will resume flights to Erbil International Airport in early May 2026, boosting travel, tourism, and commercial activity. The move reinforces Erbil’s role as a key regional gateway and improves international connectivity.
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- KRG Returns IQD 3.2 Billion to Citizens Under Electricity Discount Plan
The Kurdistan Regional Government has returned 3.2 billion Iraqi dinars to over 133,000 households through a 20% electricity discount program, supporting affordability as more than 85% of citizens gain access to reliable power under the Runaki initiative.
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- Rwanga Replants 300-Year-Old Kurdish Qazwan Tree in Duhok
The Rwanga Foundation has successfully replanted a 300-year-old Qazwan (turpentine) tree in Duhok province after it was uprooted by strong winds, preserving a vital cultural and ecological symbol. The effort reflects ongoing environmental initiatives to protect native species across the Kurdistan Region.
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