Clarification from the Office of Local Councils Affairs in the Kurdish National Council

ARK News.. The Office of Local Councils Affairs of the Kurdish National Council (KNC) announced the postponement of Newroz celebrations due to adverse weather conditions.

In a statement issued on Monday, March 23, 2026, the council said that severe weather in several areas prevented the celebrations from being held as planned, prompting relevant bodies to refrain from proceeding with the scheduled events.

The statement emphasized that any activities currently being organized do not represent the council.

The KNC added that a new event will be organized at a later, more suitable time, with the participation of artistic groups affiliated with the council, noting that further details will be announced soon.

Statement Highlights

The Council reaffirmed that the Kurdish people celebrate Newroz annually on March 21 as a national occasion symbolizing freedom, renewal, and rebirth—traditionally marked by gatherings in nature as an expression of cultural and national identity. However, it noted that harsh weather conditions beyond control prevented several Kurdish regions from observing the occasion in the usual manner.

“Out of a sense of responsibility and commitment to national principles—which affirm that this occasion cannot be postponed or canceled unilaterally by any political party—we clarify that the celebrations scheduled for tomorrow are not affiliated with us,” the statement said.

The Council stressed that the postponement does not mean the absence of future activities, confirming that a separate event will be organized in a natural setting with the participation of artistic groups affiliated with KNC parties. It also clarified that the upcoming event will not be held under the title of Newroz.

The Council concluded by stating that the date, location, and details of the event will be announced at the earliest opportunity.

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