Kirkuk: The Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) has responded to recent statements made by Masrour Barzani, Vice President of the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP), regarding the status of Kirkuk. Barzani, during an election rally, described Kirkuk as occupied territory that must be reclaimed, expressing readiness to shed blood for its return.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Aso Mamand, the supervisor of the PUK organizations in Kirkuk and Salahuddin, countered Barzani’s claims by stating, “Kirkuk is liberated, not occupied.” Mamand suggested that Barzani’s call to liberate Kirkuk with blood might imply an intention to raid the governor’s office, rather than addressing the situation through peaceful means.