Iraqi First Lady Reaffirms Unwavering Commitment to Return All Anfal Victims' Remains

Iraqi Presidency

Iraqi First Lady Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed and Layla Al-Khafaji, Secretary-General of the Political Burea

Iraqi First Lady Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed reaffirmed her dedication to addressing the Anfal case and pledged to continue her efforts to return the remains of Anfal victims, the Iraqi Presidency reported on Monday, 3 February 2025.

The Iraqi Presidency said in a statement that the First Lady Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed received Layla Al-Khafaji, Secretary-General of the Political Bureau of the National Wisdom Movement, and Intizar Ahmed Al-Khazraji, a witness to the atrocities of the Anfal campaign. This gathering, held at Al-Salam Palace, is part of the First Lady’s ongoing commitment to addressing the humanitarian crisis faced by victims of the Anfal genocide.

The First Lady, who oversees efforts to return the remains of Anfal victims, reaffirmed her dedication to this cause, according to the statement. She stressed that uncovering mass graves and ensuring the return of victims’ remains to their families is not just a humanitarian responsibility but a moral imperative. 

“Our work continues with unwavering commitment to return the remains of all Anfal victims to their rightful places and to uncover any remaining mass graves. This is not just a duty – it is a moral imperative,” she said.

To ensure that future generations understand the gravity of these atrocities, the First Lady has partnered with the Ministries of Education and Higher Education to integrate the history of the Anfal campaign and its impact on the Kurdish and Arab populations into the national curriculum.

“It is vital that future generations learn about the oppression and brutality of the past, so that the horrors of this dark chapter are never forgotten,” she added.

During the meeting, the First Lady also heard firsthand accounts from Al-Khazraji, who shared her painful experiences as a victim of the regime’s violence. 

Shanaz Ibrahim Ahmed expressed deep sympathy for the suffering endured by Al-Khazraji, her family and the people of Dujail District.

Layla Al-Khafaji praised the First Lady for her leadership and direct involvement in overseeing the process of uncovering mass graves and returning the victims’ remains. She emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to support and compensate the victims’ families in a way that honors their immense sacrifices.



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