Martyr Rustem Cudi Refugee Camp in Maxmur, under UN supervision, continues to be under embargo and pressure by Iraq and the KDP. Ten workers detained in August have still not been released.
According to camp administrators, the 10 workers went to Baghdad for work on 24 August. They have been held in custody for more than 15 days. Although they traveled to Baghdad with legal permits, they have not been released.
Embargo in place since 2019
Restrictions on the camp began in 2019 after a MIT officer was killed at Turkey’s consulate in Hewlêr (Erbil), initiated by the KDP. Since then, people have been prevented from crossing into Southern Kurdistan, and access to healthcare has become more difficult. Turkish warplanes bombed the camp, and Iraqi forces attempted sieges, increasing the pressure.
No goods allowed in the camp since 10 April
Since 10 April, the Iraqi government has completely halted the entry of goods into the camp. Patients must obtain permits for medical treatment, and workers need intelligence approval in order to work. Merchants’ goods are subject to detailed inspections at checkpoints.
Protest by residents of the camp
Camp residents say the embargo and pressures are part of a joint effort by Turkey, the KDP, and Iraq to forcibly displace the population. Despite disruptions to municipal services, residents state they will resist all hardships and will not leave the camp.