The Erbil salary crisis continues to create growing tension between Erbil and Baghdad. Many public sector workers in the Kurdistan Region still wait for their paychecks. Their frustration grows daily as the federal government withholds vital funds. Kurdish leaders openly criticize Baghdad’s actions and demand immediate solutions.
Interior Minister Rebar Ahmed strongly blamed the Iraqi government for ignoring financial promises. He stressed that the Region’s workers and Peshmerga forces suffer deeply from the delays. According to Ahmed, Baghdad failed to uphold the constitution by not sending salaries to the Kurdistan Region.
Moreover, Baghdad claims that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) already received its fair share of the federal budget. Officials in the capital also say the KRG did not deliver the agreed amount of oil. However, Kurdish leaders deny these accusations. They believe Baghdad uses financial pressure for political gain.
Rebar Ahmed spoke about these issues during a French national day celebration in Erbil. He stood before top Kurdish figures and the French Consul General. With firm words, he said the Iraq salary crisis affects national unity and peace. He also reminded everyone of the Peshmerga’s role in defending Iraq, especially during the fight against ISIS.
He said the Peshmerga once protected Baghdad and helped fight terrorism for the whole country. Now, those same fighters cannot feed their families. The Iraq salary crisis, he said, insults those who sacrificed their lives.
Furthermore, Ahmed urged leaders in Baghdad to return to talks. He stated that Erbil wants solutions based on the constitution and legal agreements. He added that only honest talks and fair policies can rebuild trust. For the Kurdistan Region, dialogue remains the best path forward.
At the event, Ahmed also praised France for its long friendship with the Kurdish people. He remembered how France helped during tough times, including wars and displacement. He said French aid groups stood by the Kurdish people when they needed help the most. Kurdish leaders still value this support today.
In conclusion, Ahmed’s speech combined frustration with hope. He criticized the unfair treatment from Baghdad but welcomed future dialogue. The Iraq salary crisis, he warned, must end soon. Until then, public workers and Peshmerga families will continue to face hardship.