PUK Investigates Iraqi Government’s Unilateral Elevation of Qaratapa to District Status

Kurdistan 01:49 PM - 2025-07-05

PUK logo and upper part of the Iraqi map.

The Iraqi Ministry of Planning has unilaterally approved the promotion of the Qaratapa sub-district to full district status. This decision has prompted the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) bloc in the Iraqi parliament to launch an investigation, as Qaratapa lies within the disputed territories governed by Article 140 of the Iraqi Constitution.

The disputed areas, often referred to as the “in-between areas,” encompass Kirkuk, Sinjar, Tal Afar, Khanaqin, and others. These regions are characterised by ethnically and religiously diverse populations—including Kurds, Arabs, and Turkmen—and contain significant oil and gas reserves. Under the former Ba’ath regime, Arabisation policies forcibly displaced many Kurds, replacing them with Arab settlers. Article 140 was designed to address the complex identity and administrative issues of these areas, mandating a process of normalisation, census, and referendum to determine their final status.

PUK Bloc: Comprehensive Investigation Underway

Sozan Mansour, spokesperson for the PUK bloc, told PUKMEDIA: “The PUK is conducting a thorough investigation into the Qaratapa issue from all legal and constitutional perspectives. Once the investigation is complete, the PUK will announce its official position.” 

She emphasised that, “Qaratapa falls within the disputed areas between the Kurdistan Region and Iraq, which are subject to Article 140. Therefore, this matter requires careful deliberation rather than hasty decisions.”

Kurdistan Commission Calls for Coordination

Fahmi Burhan, Chairman of the General Board for Kurdistani Areas Outside the Region, told PUKMEDIA: “Qaratapa is among the disputed territories under Article 140. Any administrative, economic, or security changes in these areas must be coordinated between the Kurdistan Regional Government and the federal government.” 

He added that an official letter would be submitted to the Supreme Committee for Article 140, warning against unilateral actions that could exacerbate tensions.

Previously, these sub-districts reported directly to Diyala province without district affiliation. The Ministry’s decision elevates Qaratapa to district status and attaches Jabara and Koks as subordinate sub-districts.

Qaratapa is located on the border of the disputed territories and is subject to Article 140’s provisions. It is part of Kifri district, situated near Lake Hamrin, approximately 40 kilometres from Diyala province’s centre. The status of Qaratapa and similar areas remains a sensitive and unresolved issue, reflecting broader challenges in implementing Article 140, which remains in effect despite delays and political disputes.



PUKMEDIA