Iraqi Yezidi MP urges Syrian Interim Government to prioritize rescue of kidnapped Yezidi women

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraqi MP Vian Dakhil has called on the Syrian Interim Government to intensify efforts to locate and free Yezidi women who were kidnapped by the Islamic State (ISIS) in 2014.

In a statement, Dakhil emphasized that this humanitarian crisis cannot be delayed any further, urging both Iraqi and Syrian authorities to take immediate and coordinated action.

Pressuring authorities for a swift response

Dakhil called on the Iraqi government to engage directly with Ahmed al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s interm government, pushing for concrete measures to uncover the fate of the missing women. She stressed the need for intelligence-sharing, enhanced search operations, and official collaboration between the Iraqi federal government, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), and Syrian authorities.

Acknowledging Kurdistan’s efforts amidst broader inaction

The MP praised the efforts of the KRG and its Office for Rescuing Kidnapped Yezidis, highlighting their commitment to tracking down survivors, rehabilitating them, and providing psychological and social support. She contrasted this with the inaction of other entities that have failed to take responsibility for the ongoing crisis.

A test for Syria’s new leadership

Dakhil warned that no new administration in Syria could afford to ignore this humanitarian issue, calling it a “true test” of the Syrian leadership’s commitment to human rights and justice.

A legacy of tragedy and unanswered questions

In 2014, ISIS militants overran the Yezidi region of Shigur (Şengal/Sinjar), executing thousands of men while abducting women and girls, many of whom remain missing. As Syria undergoes political transformation, Yezidi families continue to seek justice and answers, hoping that renewed efforts will finally bring their loved ones home.