Sulaymaniyah: A senior source in the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) has revealed significant details regarding the recent turbulent events in Sulaymaniyah, specifically the Lalazar clashes, which resulted in multiple fatalities and arrests. The source disclosed that there were four assassination attempts targeting Pavel Talabani, the Head of the PUK, and Qubad Talabani, the Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region and a member of the PUK’s Political Bureau.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the source informed journalists that the violent clashes led to the deaths of twelve individuals, including three security force members. Furthermore, 160 people were arrested during the events. The source elaborated on the assassination attempts, noting that one attempt on Pavel Talabani was thwarted due to the presence of Americans with him during a planned attack by a commander.

Another attempt involved a sniper positioned 600 meters away in Dabashan, who ultimately did not fire despite aiming at Pavel Talabani. A separate failed attempt took place at the Vogue restaurant in Sarjnar, while a plan to target Qubad Talabani was also made when he was aboard a plane over Sulaymaniyah.

The source provided additional context, citing that Pavel Talabani’s use of an armored vehicle contributed to the failure of some assassination attempts. Prior to the clashes, Pavel Talabani reportedly attempted to communicate with Lahur Sheikh Jangi, urging him to leave, but his efforts were rebuffed.

The senior PUK source emphasized that the Kurdistan Democratic Party was not involved in these assassination attempts or conspiracies.