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Hoshiyar ZibariMinister of Foreign Affairs of Iraq
Country:
 Iraq |
Content:
Early Life and Education
Hoshyar Zebariwas born in 1953 in Akre, northern Iraqi Kurdistan. He obtained a degree in political science from the University of Jordan and later pursued a master's degree at the University of Essex in the United Kingdom.
Political Involvement
Student Activism:During his time in the UK, Zebari became the head of the Society of Kurdish Students in Europe. Through this role, he gradually entered leftist political circles that opposed Saddam Hussein's regime.
Return to Iraq and Kurdish Activism:Upon returning to Iraq, Zebari joined the Kurdistan Democratic Party. Amidst the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988), separatist sentiments grew in northern Iraq. Zebari became an activist in the Peshmerga, the Kurdish militia.
Chemical Weapons Attack and Exile
Halabja Disaster:Following the brutal suppression of the Kurdish uprising in Halabja, where Iraqi forces used chemical weapons on thousands of civilians, Zebari fled to London. He dedicated himself to bringing international attention to the atrocities committed by the Baathist regime.
Post-Saddam Era
Return to Baghdad and Ministerial Appointment:After Saddam Hussein's regime was toppled in April 2003, Zebari returned to Baghdad. On September 1, 2003, he was appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs by the US-led Iraqi Governing Council.
Diplomatic Successes:As Foreign Minister, Zebari played a key role in Iraq's re-engagement with the international community. He led the Iraqi delegation at the Arab League summit and established diplomatic relations with several countries.
