Kirkuk: The Kirkuk Tribal Affairs Department recently hosted a significant tribal conference aimed at addressing extremism and promoting social peace. This notable gathering brought together numerous groups to discuss strategies for establishing stability and harmony within the region.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Kirkuk Police Chief, Brigadier General Fatah Mahmoud Yassin al-Khafaji, met with the Director of Iraqi Tribal Affairs, Major General Salman al-Hasnawi, and Dr. Ali al-Badiri from the Committee for Combating Violent Extremism Leading to Terrorism. Their discussions centered on strengthening coexistence and supporting security efforts in Kirkuk.

Held at the Kirkuk Tribal Affairs Department headquarters, the conference saw a large turnout of sheikhs and dignitaries from Kirkuk’s diverse ethnic and religious communities, including Arabs, Kurds, Turkmen, and Christians. This gathering highlighted a sense of national unity and focused on combating violent extremism and safeguarding society from extremist rhetoric.

In his address, Major General Fatah al-Khafaji underscored Kirkuk’s role as a symbol of peaceful coexistence, describing it as a “microscopic Iraq.” He highlighted the critical support that Iraqi tribes provide to security forces in maintaining regional stability. Coordination between the police and tribes was emphasized as essential in fostering brotherhood and rejecting hatred.

Major General Salman al-Hasnawi outlined the Ministry of Interior’s strategy to engage tribes in societal roles, while Dr. Ali al-Badiri discussed the risks of violent extremism and the importance of dialogue and moderation. He commended the awareness and commitment of Kirkuk’s tribal sheikhs to the province’s unity.

The conference concluded with recommendations to enhance collaboration across communities, unify tribal discourse in support of law and governance, and work collectively to eliminate extremist ideology, ensuring lasting security and peace in Kirkuk.