KRG Health Minister Saman Barzanji says death and disability rates from disease and cancer have declined in the Kurdistan Region. He also confirmed plans to implement a health insurance project in the future.

The Kurdistan Regional Government met to discuss oil export negotiations and a draft plan to reform the pension system. The issue of public salaries was not included on the agenda.

The May 1 Committee says 12 workers have died in the Kurdistan Region so far this year due to poor safety conditions. Workers’ lives remain at risk without adequate protective measures.

Iraq has banned the importation of workers from Syria, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Philippines to encourage local employment. The decision comes amid concerns over $2 billion annually leaving the country through foreign remittances.

Halabja is set to become Iraq’s 19th province today following presidential approval. The decision comes months after the Iraqi Parliament passed the bill in November 2023.

New Generation MP Goran Dibageyi criticized the KRG Interior Ministry’s decision to allow MPs to blacken their car windows, calling it shameful. He said the New Generation faction would not abide by the decision.

PUK and KDP representatives are meeting today at Dukan Resort to finalize the distribution of posts in the new regional government. The meeting aims to complete the allocation of key positions following multiple rounds of negotiations between the two parties.

US Consul General Stephen Pitner met with Shaswar Abdulwahid to discuss political developments in the Kurdistan Region and Iraq. Several foreign diplomats have recently visited Abdulwahid amid rising political engagement.

Epicur, the association of oil companies, announced that no agreement has been reached with Baghdad and Erbil to resume oil exports from the Kurdistan Region. Despite expressed willingness from both governments, payment assurances and progress remain unresolved, leaving the future of the exports uncertain.

IHEC announced that 70 political parties have registered for the upcoming Iraqi parliamentary elections. The elections are set to take place on November 11, 2025

Iraq became the fifth largest importer of Turkish goods in 2024, with $12 billion in imports. Experts recommend diversifying trade partners to reduce reliance on Turkey.

The Kurdish Position Unity Congress was held in Qamishlo to strengthen unity among Kurdish parties. A joint political document on Syria's future will be submitted to the Damascus administration.

The Islamic Movement of Kurdistan condemned the arrest of Shorsh Ghafoor, a prominent member, demanding his immediate release and an apology from the authorities.

Nechirvan Barzani marked the anniversary of the Qaladze bombing, honoring the sacrifices made by the people of Qaladze in the Kurdish struggle for freedom. He emphasized the responsibility to build a better future for the region in recognition of their enduring legacy.

Prime Minister Masrour Barzani issued a message on the 51st anniversary of the bombing of Qaladze and the 43rd anniversary of the Raperin uprising, honoring the victims of these tragic events. He pledged that their memory would be commemorated with dignity, highlighting the resilience of the Kurdish people.

Bafel Talabani, leader of the PUK, highlighted that the ongoing talks with the KDP focus on the conditions for forming a new government. He emphasized that the new cabinet must meet the expectations of both parties and serve the best interests of the people.

DNO has increased its oil production in the Tawke and Fishkhabour fields to over 82,000 barrels per day. The rise comes as Iraq warns of continued oil smuggling from the Kurdistan Region.

Former Iraqi President Barham Salih said Kurdistan is a model of unity and diversity where different faiths live together in peace. He praised Pope Francis for promoting peace and tolerance, highlighting Kurdistan’s legacy of coexistence.

Massoud Barzani, leader of the Kurdistan Democratic Party, emphasized the importance of mutual acceptance for coexistence during the National Prayer Day celebration. He highlighted Kurdistan's unique culture of respecting freedom of opinion, religion, and sect.