Qeladizê means "Castle of Two Rivers" from theKurdish words Qela = castle, dû = two and zê = river. In the southwest of the city there is a castle between two rivers.[1]
Qaladiza, located in theKurdistan Region of Iraq, has a rich historical backdrop. This section outlines the key events and transformations of Qaladiza from ancient history to its modern-day status.
Geographical Importance: Qaladiza lies in a mountainous area, offering natural defenses and strategic significance for early settlements.
Early Inhabitants: The region has been inhabited since ancient times, possibly influenced by theSumerians,Akkadians, andAssyrians due to its proximity to ancient Mesopotamian civilizations.
Islamic Conquests: Following the spread of Islam in the 7th century, Qaladiza became part of various Islamic Caliphates, including theUmayyad andAbbasid Caliphates.
Kurdish Emirates: The area was governed by Kurdish emirates during the medieval period, with theShaddadid andRawadid dynasties playing key roles.
Administrative Structure: In the 16th century, Qaladiza became part of theOttoman Empire, where local Kurdish leaders were given significant autonomy in exchange for loyalty and tribute.
Tribal Influence: Kurdish tribal structures remained influential, with tribal leaders overseeing governance and tax collection under the Ottomans' indirect rule.
Kurdish Nationalism: This period marked the rise of Kurdish nationalism, with Qaladiza playing a role in the movement for greater autonomy within Iraq.
Kurdish Rebellions and the Ba'athist Era (1958-2003)
First Kurdish-Iraqi War (1961-1970): Qaladiza was a center for the Kurdish resistance during theFirst Kurdish-Iraqi War, which saw military clashes between Kurdish forces and the Iraqi government.
Autonomy Agreement (1970): In 1970, a limited autonomy agreement was signed, granting Kurdish areas, including Qaladiza, some self-rule. However, its implementation was unsuccessful.
Second Kurdish-Iraqi War (1974-1975): Renewed conflict in the 1970s led to further devastation in the region.
Anfal Campaign (1986-1989): UnderSaddam Hussein, theBa'athist regime launched the genocidalAnfal Campaign against the Kurds, severely affecting Qaladiza with mass destruction and displacement.
Post-2003 and the Establishment of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG)
US Invasion and Aftermath: The2003 invasion of Iraq and the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime brought greater autonomy to the Kurdistan Region. Qaladiza benefited from US support and international protection, leading to stability in the region.
Reconstruction and Development: Since 2003, significant reconstruction efforts have been undertaken in Qaladiza, improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Economic Growth: The town has experienced economic growth, benefiting from regional stability and investments in various sectors, including oil and infrastructure.
University of Raparin: TheUniversity of Raparin in Qaladiza serves as a major educational institution, contributing significantly to the region's intellectual development.
Cultural Revival: A renewed focus on preserving Kurdish culture, language, and traditions has led to cultural festivals and events aimed at strengthening Kurdish identity.
Ethnic Composition: The majority of Qaladiza’s population is Kurdish, with a strong connection to traditional Kurdish customs and values.
Modernization and Urbanization: The town has experienced modernization, reflected in improved urban infrastructure, healthcare, and educational facilities.
Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK): ThePUK has been a dominant political force in Qaladiza, with strong support for its leaders and initiatives.
Political Participation: The citizens of Qaladiza are actively involved in Kurdish politics, especially in the broader context of Iraq's Kurdish autonomy.
Regional Tensions: Although Qaladiza enjoys relative stability, it remains vulnerable to broader regional tensions, particularly due to conflicts with neighboring countries.
ISIS Threat: In 2014, the rise ofISIS posed a threat to the Kurdistan Region. Qaladiza was involved in the defense against the extremist group, demonstrating Kurdish resilience.
Sustainable Development: Qaladiza is focused on long-term development, with ongoing efforts to diversify its economy, improve infrastructure, and expand educational opportunities.
Qaladiza’s history reflects its resilience and cultural significance. From ancient times through conflicts and struggles for autonomy, the town has maintained its Kurdish identity. Today, it stands as a symbol of reconstruction and progress within theKurdistan Region of Iraq.
In the 1980s, Qaladiza faced brutal repression under Saddam Hussein'sBa'athist government. The town was destroyed during theIran–Iraq War in the 1980s, and its residents were forcibly displaced. Most were relocated to camps nearBazzian and other parts ofIraqi Kurdistan. They remained there until the Kurdish1991 uprising.
On 24 April 1974, the town of Qaladiza was bombed bySaddam Hussein's regime. This bombing targeted the town in retaliation for the relocation of theUniversity of Sulaimania to Qaladiza, a political move seen as a show of solidarity with Kurdish leaderMustafa Barzani's resistance efforts. Over 425 students and teachers from the university were relocated. The bombing killed at least 400 people and left the town in ruins.
On 10 February 2013, the Kurdish Regional Government declared 24 April asUniversity Martyrs Day, in commemoration of the victims of the Qaladiza bombing.[2]
Qaladiza was also targeted duringSaddam Hussein'sAnfal Campaign, which sought to exterminate the Kurdish population. Many residents were killed or disappeared in these attacks.[3]
The bombing of Qaladiza remains one of the most tragic chapters in the town's history.
Iraq
Kurdistan Region
