Sinjar:Erbil The Ministry of Interior of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has issued a warning to the federal government in Baghdad regarding what it describes as “unilateral actions” in Sinjar. The Ministry’s statement expressed concerns over the federal government’s understandings about Sinjar, which it claims contradict the 2020 agreement aimed at normalizing the district’s situation. This agreement was signed under the auspices of the United Nations.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Ministry highlighted the risks associated with imposing an undesirable security and administrative reality that bypasses legitimate institutions. It warned that such moves could complicate the situation further, obstruct the normalization process, and hinder the return of displaced persons to the area.

The Ministry underscored the sacrifices made by the Peshmerga forces during the liberation of Sinjar, reminding all parties of the 500 martyrs and 3,000 wounded among the Peshmerga and stressing the importance of respecting these sacrifices. It called for the full implementation of the Sinjar Agreement, which it believes is crucial for establishing legitimate administration, facilitating reconstruction, and ensuring the return of displaced Yazidis.

In case the agreement cannot be implemented, the Ministry suggested an alternative approach that involves consulting the views and will of the Sinjar people, particularly the Yazidis. It emphasized that regional stability and the safety of inhabitants should take precedence over other interests.

As part of ongoing integration efforts, between 4,200 and 4,300 members of the Sinjar Resistance Units (YBS) are slated for incorporation into Iraqi security forces, and 1,200 civilians are to be integrated into governmental institutions. YBS members will be distributed across the Iraqi Army, local police, and Popular Mobilization Forces.

The 2020 Sinjar Agreement, signed by the federal government and the Kurdistan Regional Government, aims to stabilize and normalize Sinjar’s situation. Its administrative, security, and reconstruction pillars include appointing a new district administrator, ensuring local police manage security, and overseeing reconstruction through a joint committee. The agreement also requires the removal of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and its affiliates from the area.