The 2025 Iraqi parliamentary elections are expected to reshape the political landscape in Iraq, with effects extending beyond the country’s borders. Meanwhile, the Twelve-Day War between Iran and Israel has prompted many nations in the region to revise their foreign policies, with most now prioritizing more stable relations with world powers and building stronger alliances to minimize geopolitical risks.
In post-2003 Iraq, the country’s policies were largely shaped by regional and political consensus among certain actors on the ground. However, this approach may no longer be a viable path. Today, in a country caught between another potential Iran-Israel war, successful politics often depends on backroom agreements with powerful economic players, especially those in the global energy sector. As a result, developments in Iraq can no longer be seen solely as a regional matter with limited consequences. Any political move should now be assessed through a broader lens — one that should, or perhaps must, align with the international strategies of the major powers.
This logic applies to the Kurdistan Region as well. While the region may cover a small geographic area with a relatively small population, the Kurdistan Region has proven to be an influential actor in regional affairs and a positive contributor to global challenges. It has positioned itself as one of the missing pieces in the larger puzzle of a more prosperous Middle East, with influence that extends from its rich culture and history to its evolving democracy.
As a professional publication, Kurdistan Chronicle is proud to present the Kurdistan Region to a global audience through inspiring stories that highlight its vision for a more human- and environment-focused future.
For instance, in this issue, we explore the Green Belt Project, which will encircle Erbil with seven million trees, helping to reverse the intentional and unintentional damage that has been done to Kurdistan’s environment over decades of conflict.
Readers will also meet several Kurdish artists around the world who are working tirelessly to share Kurdish history, culture, and identity. As part of our commitment to Kurdish history and heritage, Kurdistan Chroniclesheds light on the revitalization efforts at the historic Citadel of Erbil, the Fatima Khan Bathhouse, and a recently discovered archaeological site just outside the city.
This issue also highlights several success stories — from Florence, where Fuad Ali presents world-class art; to Milan, where Lara Dizayee introduces Kurdish identity through her fashion; to the UK, where Banaz Sattar’s skincare products have gained international recognition.
In this issue, we reflect on a historic initiative by Kurdistan Chronicle. Last month, during a ceremony attended by key lawmakers in the Iraqi Parliament, we introduced Jan Dost’s latest book, The General’s Last Battle, which sheds light on the life of Kurdish leader General Mustafa Barzani through fiction.
All these stories, along with many others in this issue, demonstrate that Kurdistan refuses to surrender to hardship and continues to fight for a brighter future, not only through politics, but also through culture and other peaceful means. This remains the core mission of this publication.
