On Saturday, senior Kurdish leaders and international representatives extended warm congratulations to the Kaka’i (Yarsan) community on the occasion of Eid al-Qultas (Three Nights’ Day) festival.

“Warm wishes to the Kakai (Yarsan) community as they celebrate Qawltas! Kakais are a vital part of the rich & diverse tapestry of IKR & Iraq, representing principles of tolerance & peaceful coexistence,” the U.S. Consulate General in Erbil posted on X on Monday. 

“The US stands with all communities in supporting religious freedom worldwide.”The Kaka’i, also known as Ahl-e Haqq, or “the people of the truth”, are followers of a syncretic religion found in Kirkuk, Halabja, Nineveh, and Eastern Kurdistan (northwestern Iran).

“On the occasion of the return of the Qawltas Festival of the Kaka’i community, I extend my warmest congratulations to all Kaka’i sisters and brothers in Kurdistan, Iraq, and across the world,” President Masoud Barzani said in a statement on January 3.

“Kurdistan is a land of unity, brotherhood, and coexistence. I hope that our Kaka’i sisters and brothers, along with all other religious and national components of Kurdistan, will always celebrate their occasions, festivals, and joys in an atmosphere of peace and stability.”

Furthermore, Kurdistan Regional Government Prime Minister Masrour Barzani in a statement on January 3 underlined that the Kaka’i are an important part of Kurdistan and “possess a long history of struggle, resistance, and pride within the Kurdish people’s liberation movement.” 

Kaka’i have also joined the Peshmerga forces and resisted advances by ISIS forces on Kaka’i villages.

“I hope that, together with all other components of Kurdistan, we will always live in unity and peace,” Prime Minister Barzani said, wishing the Kaka’i community a happy Eid al-Qultas .

Moreover, Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, in a statement on January 3, underlined that the Kaka’i are an ancient and indigenous community of Kurdistan who have consistently exemplified tolerance, peacefulness, and patriotism. “Throughout history, they have preserved their identity, religion, and culture, and have made sacrifices to defend Kurdistan despite numerous challenges and hardships.

“On this special occasion, we reaffirm to all our Kaka’i citizens that the Kurdistan Region will continue to be a haven of peace and coexistence, serving as an umbrella that unites all communities. We remain committed to supporting their rights and safeguarding their religious and social identity.”