Agreement on Sinjar

14 Mar Agreement on Sinjar

Agreement on Sinjar: What it Means for Iraq and the Middle East

In October 2021, an agreement was reached between the Iraqi central government and the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) to jointly administer the disputed Sinjar district in Northern Iraq. The agreement is a significant step towards resolving the long-standing conflict between the two parties and bringing stability to the region.

Sinjar, also known as Shingal, is a district in Nineveh province, historically inhabited by the Yazidi minority. In 2014, the Islamic State (ISIS) overran the area, killing and displacing thousands of Yazidis. Since then, the district has been divided between the central government and the KRG, with both parties claiming authority over it.

The new agreement calls for the formation of a joint administration committee, consisting of representatives from the central government, the KRG, and the Yazidi community. The committee will be responsible for managing the district`s security, services, and reconstruction efforts.

The agreement also includes provisions for the return of displaced Yazidis to their homes in Sinjar. The Yazidi community has been living in IDP (Internally Displaced Person) camps since the ISIS takeover and has been calling for the safe return to their homeland. The joint administration committee will work towards creating the necessary conditions for their return, including ensuring their safety and providing basic services.

The Sinjar agreement is a significant development for Iraq, which has been plagued by sectarian violence and political instability for decades. The conflict between the central government and the KRG over disputed territories has been a major obstacle to stability and reconciliation in the country. The agreement on Sinjar sets a positive precedent for resolving other disputed territories, such as Kirkuk and Nineveh Plains.

Moreover, the agreement has regional implications, as it could contribute to reducing tensions between Iraq and Turkey. Turkey has been conducting military operations in the region since 2015, citing security concerns over the presence of the Kurdistan Workers` Party (PKK), a Kurdish militant group. The PKK has been assisting the Yazidi community in defending themselves against ISIS and has a significant presence in Sinjar. The joint administration committee could help alleviate Turkish concerns over the PKK presence and prevent military escalation in the region.

In conclusion, the agreement on Sinjar is a positive development for Iraq and the Middle East. It is a step towards resolving the long-standing conflict between the central government and the KRG, promoting stability and reconciliation in the country. It also has regional implications, as it could contribute to reducing tensions between Iraq and Turkey. The joint administration committee has a challenging task ahead, but if successful, it could become a model for resolving other disputed territories and promoting peace and stability in the region.