Kurdistan’s salary deal with Baghdad has sparked optimism across the region. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani welcomed the new agreement, which will resume long-delayed public sector salary payments. This breakthrough could finally end the financial strain endured by thousands of Kurdish families.
Barzani praised the deal, stating that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) showed maximum flexibility to reach this point. He emphasized that the government fulfilled all its duties to ease the burden on citizens. With the agreement now in place, Barzani hopes Kurdish entitlements will no longer fall victim to political or financial disputes.
This salary deal with Baghdad follows months of escalating tension. Back in May 2025, Baghdad suspended salary payments. The reason? The KRG had not delivered agreed oil volumes or sent non-oil revenues to the federal treasury. These obligations were part of Iraq’s 2023–2025 federal budget law.
The halt triggered protests, growing frustration, and widespread concern across the Kurdistan Region. For months, public employees struggled to support their families. Meanwhile, leaders in Erbil worked to find a path forward. They argued that fulfilling the agreement was difficult due to serious political and logistical challenges.
One major obstacle was the continued closure of the Ceyhan pipeline in Turkiye, which has blocked crude oil exports from Kurdistan since March 2023. Without that key export route, revenue flows dropped sharply. This complicated the KRG’s efforts to meet federal demands.
Despite these challenges, both sides have now reached common ground. Barzani called for regular, uninterrupted payments in the future. He also urged that all unresolved issues should be settled through the Constitution and in full respect of signed agreements.
The new salary deal with Baghdad could mark a turning point for relations between the KRG and the federal government. After years of mistrust and political friction, the agreement shows that dialogue and compromise remain possible.
Officials in Erbil hope this is not just a temporary fix. They want a long-term solution that guarantees Kurdish financial rights. The phrase “salary deal with Baghdad” was repeated in multiple speeches and statements throughout the day, underlining its importance.
Looking ahead, stability depends on mutual trust. Regular communication and transparency between Baghdad and the KRG will be essential. If both sides honor their commitments, Kurdish citizens could finally see consistent support.
The salary deal with Baghdad has brought new hope, but lasting peace requires ongoing cooperation.