On Saturday, the Iraqi parliament banned alcohol: its sale, consumption and import are legal no more. However, the country’s autonomous Kurdish region will not be following suit.
On Monday, Erbil-based Rudaw reported that the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) will not abide by the ban, meaning alcohol will continue to be available in its territory.
The KRG controls predominantly Kurdish and other areas in northern Iraq, including Erbil, Kirkuk, Dohok, Sulimania and other areas. The regional has a considerable degree of autonomy from Baghdad in matters pertaining to governance.
Some criticized Iraq’s decision, especially at a time when the government is focusing on defeating Daesh (ISIS) in Mosul.
Apparently #Baghdad parliament passed bill prohibiting alcohol production & import into #Iraq. Cartoon show pols aiming at booze not #Mosul pic.twitter.com/Sj9ByL8qer
Iraq’s decision is somewhat unique. Many predominantly Muslim countries allow the sale and consumption of alcohol despite religious prohibitions on the beverage.
