Slemani — Officials in both the Kurdistan Region and Iraq’s Karbala Governorate have expressed condolences following the death of a young girl from Karbala who drowned during a visit to Halabja Governorate, while praising the extensive efforts undertaken by local authorities, rescue teams, and volunteers to recover her body.
In a statement, Karbala Governor Nassif Jassim Al-Khattabi extended his condolences to the family of the child, Ruqayya, who died in the incident, offering sympathy and prayers for her family.
Al-Khattabi also expressed gratitude to Halabja Governor Nukhsha Nasih Ahmed and the residents of Halabja for what he described as their humanitarian response and solidarity with the victim’s family.
He said the support shown by the people of Halabja reflected the values of national unity and compassion, adding that he intends to visit Halabja in the coming days to personally thank local officials and residents for their efforts.
Separately, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani issued a statement thanking the people of Halabja and the Hawraman area for their role in the search and recovery operation.
“I extend my sincere thanks and deepest appreciation to the people of Halabja Governorate and the Hawraman region who exerted tireless efforts over the past few days to recover the body of the child tourist from Karbala,” Barzani said.
The prime minister praised local authorities, security forces, civil defense teams, volunteers, and all those involved in the operation, describing their actions as consistent with the values of solidarity and sacrifice that characterize the people of Kurdistan.
Barzani also conveyed his condolences to the family of the deceased and expressed sympathy for their loss.
The statement further highlighted concerns over a recent increase in drowning incidents and accidents in tourist areas. The prime minister directed relevant authorities to strengthen safety measures and enforce precautionary guidelines in recreational sites, particularly around rivers, dams, and other water sources.
He also urged residents and visitors to comply with safety instructions aimed at preventing similar tragedies in the future.
The incident has prompted renewed calls for enhanced public safety measures at tourist destinations across the Kurdistan Region, especially during the busy summer travel season.
