Kurdistan Commemorates 11th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Two Peshmerga Commanders

PUKMEDIA

The two senior Peshmerga commanders.

Today marks the 11th anniversary of the martyrdom of two senior Peshmerga commanders, Major General Sherko Fatih Shwani and Major General Hussein Mansour, who lost their lives while defending Kirkuk against ISIS attacks in 2015.

On the morning of 30 January 2015, ISIS terrorist groups launched a large-scale attack on the city of Kirkuk. In response, Major General Sherko Fatih Shwani moved swiftly to confront the attackers, leading efforts to repel the assault and protect the city. He defended Kirkuk’s diverse communities without discrimination and was martyred during the fighting.

Sherko Fatih Shwani became a lasting symbol of resistance against terrorism. He had pledged to protect the people of Kirkuk from extremist violence and fulfilled that promise at the cost of his life. His sacrifice is remembered across the city’s communities, who continue to honour his role in safeguarding Kirkuk during one of its most dangerous moments.

One day later, on 31 January 2015, Major General Hussein Mansour, commander of the Second Support Forces, was martyred during operations to liberate the village of Mulla Abdullah in Kirkuk Governorate from ISIS control. He was killed while taking part in battles aimed at restoring security and freeing the area from terrorist occupation.

Major General Hussein Mansour was widely regarded as a brave and steadfast commander, respected by his fellow Peshmerga fighters and known for his commitment on the battlefield. Like many Peshmerga commanders who gave their lives in the fight against terrorism, he played a vital role in defending Kurdistan and protecting civilians.

As Kurdistan marks this anniversary, tributes continue to be paid to both commanders and to all those who were martyred in the struggle against ISIS. Their sacrifices remain deeply embedded in the collective memory of Kirkuk and Kurdistan, standing as a reminder of the cost paid to defend security, coexistence and stability.


PUKMEDIA