German Bundestag recognizes Yezidi genocide

BERLIN — On Thursday, the German Bundestag approved the recognition of the massacres committed by the Islamic State (ISIS) against the Yezidis of Shigur (Sinjar / Shengal) as genocide. The move was welcomed by high-ranking officials in Baghdad and Erbil. The session was attended by dozens of prominent members of the Yezidi community.

The German recognition of the genocide follows recognition by Belgium, the Netherlands, and France, among others.

The law includes recognizing the genocide and asking the German government to provide financial aid to support the return of the displaced Yezidis to their homes and areas of origin.

Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid welcomed the decision, calling on the international community to ensure that the perpetrators are punished and to make efforts to uncover the fate of those still missing.

President of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI) Nechirvan Barzani also welcomed the decision, stating that they hope other countries around the world follow suit and ensure justice for the victims.