Kurdistan Regional Government Continues Repatriation of Stranded Citizens from Neighboring Countries

ARK News.. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) announced it has successfully facilitated the return and resolution of cases for over 13,000 Kurdistani citizens who were stranded in neighboring countries following recent airspace closures and suspended flights across the region.

In an official statement, the KRG said that, under the directive of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, an emergency response plan was launched to organize the repatriation of stranded citizens after airport shutdowns and deteriorating regional security left hundreds unable to return home.

The statement explained that the Ministry of Interior, Department of Foreign Relations, and Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, in coordination with concerned countries, acted swiftly to address the crisis.

"A hotline was established, along with an online registration form for stranded individuals," the statement said. It added that coordination with Turkish authorities led to the issuance of 72-hour transit visas, enabling the return of 13,001 citizens so far, with operations ongoing to assist those still abroad.

Regarding citizens returning from Iran, the government noted that 5,000 individuals have been repatriated to date, affirming that procedures are continuing to ensure the safe return of all remaining citizens.

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