30th anniversary of Sir John Major’s safe haven in and no-fly zone over the Kurdistan Region

Early day motion 1677, tabled 22 March 2021 by Robert Halfon (Conservative). Signed by 4 members.

That this House recognises the importance for relations between the UK and the Kurdistan Region in Iraq of the 30th anniversary of Sir John Major pioneering a safe haven and no-fly zone over Iraqi Kurdistan; believes that that has saved many Kurds from the genocidal vengeance of Saddam Hussein, provided a golden opportunity to form the institutional foundations of the modern Kurdistan Region that would probably not exist otherwise and gifted the world a decent, religiously pluralistic, and tolerant Kurdistan that has proved a vital ally in resisting Daesh and extremism; further recognises that Sir John’s advocacy of a safe haven in a few hectic weeks in March to April 1991 was a fitting response to the pleas of Iraqi Kurds marooned in the sanctuary of the freezing mountains and in neighbouring countries following their legitimate uprising against a dictator who committed genocide against them in the late 1980s; praises the outcry and organised generosity of the British public who sent tons of provisions to the Kurdistanis and who, together with astute lobbying by Kurdistanis in the UK, provided the moral pressure that enhanced Sir John’s far-reaching actions, which were joined by countries including France and the USA; thanks all British and other military personnel who participated in the 12-year operation to protect Kurdistanis; and proudly marks this milestone as an example of moral and pragmatic statesmanship combined with public concern and Kurdistani appeals for international action.

Signatures by party: Conservative 3, DUP 1.