Kurdistan Region's Human Rights Commission Condemns Lanaz Refinery Incident

Independent Commission For Human Rights' Media Office

Logo of the Kurdistan Region Independent Commission For Human Rights.

The Independent Commission For Human Rights in the Kurdistan Region has issued a statement regarding the violence that occurred in front of the Lanaz Refinery, stressing that it condemns all forms of violence that could lead to the use of weapons and loss of life.

In its statement, a copy of which was received by PUKMEDIA, the Commission said: “The Commission reaffirms its support for citizens’ demands to improve their living conditions and protect their rights. At the same time, it supports protests conducted lawfully and peacefully, far removed from violence. It consistently rejects the use of weapons or any form of violent action. We assure the public that we will continue to follow up on this case and the outcomes of the investigations. It is imperative that the shooters and all those involved are swiftly identified and held accountable.”

The statement continued: “The Commission condemns any form of violence that could lead to armed confrontation or loss of life. In this regard, and under the direction of the Commission’s President, a special team led by Tavga Omar, Director General of the Department of Legal Affairs and Human Rights Protection, accompanied by a Commission delegation, visited the scene of the incident. The team held discussions with several civilians about what took place.”

The Commission further confirmed that, following its team’s meetings with the Governor of Erbil and the Erbil Asayish Directorate, it was informed that investigations remain ongoing and that evidence has been collected to identify those responsible for opening fire. Authorities affirmed that legal action will be taken against anyone proven to be involved.

On Saturday, 29 November 2025, residents of the village of Lajan, near Erbil, gathered in front of the Lanaz Refinery to present a number of demands. Tensions escalated, leading to a gunfire that resulted in the death of a young man and injuries to several residents and company security staff. Several media outlets and a journalist were also attacked.



PUKMEDIA