Halabja has officially been recognized as Iraq’s 19th province following the publication of the law in the country’s Official Gazette on Monday, marking the final step in a process that began over a decade ago. Iraqi Justice Minister Khalid Shwani confirmed the law’s implementation and congratulated the people of Halabja and Kurdistan.
The move comes after President Abdul Latif Rashid ratified the bill on Tuesday. The Iraqi parliament had passed the long-awaited legislation in April with 178 members in attendance. Although the Council of Ministers approved the proposal in 2013, political disputes between Baghdad and Erbil, along with sectarian divisions, delayed the recognition.
Halabja is a symbol of Kurdish suffering and resilience, known globally for the 1988 chemical attack that killed over 5,000 civilians. Located in the Kurdistan Region, the province has a population of around 120,000 and includes four subdistricts. It is also noted for its natural beauty and tourism potential.
