Two Kurdish Journalists Released After Detention, One Remains Held in Sulaymaniyah

Two Kurdish journalists in Sulaymaniyah, Iraqi Kurdistan, have recently been released after lengthy detentions, though one journalist remains in custody. The releases mark a partial victory amid ongoing concerns over press freedom in the region.

Suleyman Ahmet, an investigative journalist who was held for 454 days, was freed on bail in late April 2025. Ahmet’s arrest sparked significant outcry from media rights groups who highlighted the risks faced by journalists covering sensitive political and social issues in Kurdistan. Despite his release, Ahmet continues to face legal proceedings related to charges against him, underscoring the precarious nature of press freedoms in the area. His long detention drew attention to the use of judicial mechanisms to silence critical reporting.

In addition, another Kurdish journalist detained earlier this year was also freed, though details about the charges and length of detention were less publicized. The release came amid pressure from local and international journalist organizations advocating for the protection of media workers.

However, not all detained journalists have been freed. One journalist remains in custody under unclear charges, highlighting ongoing challenges faced by Kurdish journalists. The continued detention has raised alarms over the Kurdish authorities’ tolerance of dissent and the limits placed on independent journalism.

Media rights groups and advocates continue to call for the immediate release of all journalists detained for their professional work, emphasizing that freedom of expression is essential for democracy and human rights in the region. The situation reflects broader concerns about the shrinking space for critical journalism in parts of Iraqi Kurdistan amid political sensitivities and conflicts.

The partial releases offer some hope, but the ongoing detentions and legal battles reveal the fragile state of press freedom in Sulaymaniyah and Iraqi Kurdistan overall.