Erbil Security Forces Crack Down on Striking Teachers, Injuring Several
Kurdfile media
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – Erbil security forces on Sunday blocked teachers from Sulaimani who were traveling to the Kurdistan Region’s capital to protest the Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) inconsistent salary payments. The demonstration, organized outside the United Nations compound in Erbil, was met with force, resulting in injuries and arrests.
Security forces stopped the protesters at the Degala checkpoint, preventing them from entering Erbil. The teachers, demanding their delayed salaries, had already set up a protest camp outside the UN office in Sulaimani, where some have been on a hunger strike for 12 days.
The Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Interior accused the demonstrators of being exploited by the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and stated that any activities threatening Erbil’s security would not be allowed. They counted this demonistration as a national threatning. Meanwhile, Erbil’s mayor referred to the striking teachers as “unwelcome guests,” further fueling outrage among the protesters.
After eight hours of confrontation at the checkpoint, security forces opened fire in the air and used tear gas to disperse the demonstrators, including journalists and members of parliament. At least five teachers were hospitalized, while others suffered breathing difficulties due to excessive tear gas exposure. Several journalists covering the event reported harassment, with some having their equipment confiscated or damaged.
Members of parliament condemned the violent crackdown, calling it a violation of democratic rights and free speech. Human rights organizations also criticized the authorities for using excessive force and called for an independent investigation into the incident.
The protest underscores the growing frustration among public sector employees in the Kurdistan Region, particularly teachers, who have endured years of delayed and inconsistent salary payments. Despite the repression, the striking teachers have vowed to continue their demonstrations, urging international organizations to intervene.