Baghdad-INA
On the twelfth anniversary of the Speicher tragedy, the national memory recalls one of the most heinous crimes committed against Iraqis in modern times, as the incident has become an open wound in the collective conscience and a stark symbol of the brutality of terrorism and its attempts to undermine the country’s unity and stability,in this context, political positions and official calls are renewed to commemorate this tragedy, ensure justice for its victims, and continue pursuing those involved, alongside emphasizing the importance of upholding the values of justice and loyalty to the sacrifices of the martyrs, in a way that strengthens the state’s path in confronting extremism and consolidating security and stability.
In this regard, the Secretary-General of the Badr Organization, Hadi al-Amiri, said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): “We recall with reverence and deep sorrow the heinous crime committed by the hand of takfiri terrorism on the day when thousands of military cadet trainees at Camp Speicher were led away after they were deceived through a despicable act of deception, only for the perpetrators to carry out the most despicable crime of the era against them."
He added: “On this painful occasion, we renew our condolences and sympathy to the Iraqi people, the families of the martyrs, and all members of the Iraqi Armed Forces, reaffirming our firm demand to pursue all remaining perpetrators and impose the harshest penalties on them, as well as to ensure that the families of the martyrs receive all their rights in a manner commensurate with the depth of their tragedy.”
Al-Amiri continued: “We commend and take pride in our heroic security forces in the Ministries of Defense and Interior, the Counter-Terrorism Service, and the Popular Mobilization Forces, which waged a war against terrorism and extremism, pursued, defeated, and eliminated it from the sacred land of Iraq, and avenged all the martyrs.”
In turn, the Secretary-General of Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, Sheikh Qais al-Khazali, said in a statement received by the Iraqi News Agency (INA): “Today marks the twelfth anniversary of the Speicher tragedy, when ISIS terrorist gangs committed one of the most heinous crimes in modern history, targeting thousands of unarmed young students and recruits near Camp Speicher Air Base in Salah al-Din Governorate.”
He added: “This brutal crime was not merely an attack on individuals, but an attempt to strike at Iraq’s unity and the will of its people, and to spread fear and despair among citizens.”
Al-Khazali stated: “Today, after twelve years, the images of the martyrs remain present in our memory and hearts, and their families continue to bear the pain of loss with pride, patience, and faith,” He called on all relevant government authorities to give special attention to the site by establishing an artistic landmark or documentary memorial monument that reflects this incident, so it may serve as a living testimony for future generations,he also urged the creation of a dedicated section affiliated with the Martyrs Foundation or any relevant institution or organization to manage, supervise, organize, and follow up on the site, as well as to specifically care for the families of the Speicher martyrs by providing support, fulfilling their needs, and ensuring their rights are secured.”
He continued: “Let the anniversary of the Speicher tragedy be not only a moment of sorrow, but also an occasion to recall the great sacrifices that paved the way for victory over terrorism.”