Peregraf
Halabja authorities have declared two days of public mourning, beginning today, after two people lost their lives in a wildfire that has been raging across the southeastern province for more than 48 hours, destroying vast forested and agricultural areas.
The victims were identified as Mohammed Haidar, a member of the Kurdistan Region’s Forest and Environment Police, and Ari Mukhtar, a well-known environmentalist. Haidar died on Sunday while attempting to extinguish the flames, while Mukhtar lost his life on Saturday evening during firefighting efforts in the mountainous terrain.
Halabja Governor Nuxsha Nasih announced the mourning period, describing the victims as “martyrs” of Halabja and the Kurdistan Region.
The wildfire, fanned by strong winds and fueled by the rugged geography of Halabja’s dense forests, has destroyed thousands of trees and hundreds of acres of farmland and gardens in surrounding villages. Firefighters, civil defense units, and volunteers continue to struggle to contain the blaze in hard-to-reach areas, with authorities warning of further damage if it spreads.
Kurdistan Region’s Deputy Prime Minister Qubad Talabani paid tribute to Mukhtar, calling him a “martyr environmentalist” and praising the courage of volunteers battling the flames.
“The martyrdom of Mr. Ari and the efforts of environmentalists to protect the forests, mountains, and nature of Kurdistan carry a deep humanitarian and patriotic message. Love and protection of the environment know no limits,” Talabani said.
He added that the government will honor Mukhtar’s legacy by naming a site in Halabja after him. The fire remains active, and emergency teams are on high alert.