LGBTQ Members Face Threats in Iraqi Kurdistan

SULAYMANIYAH, IRAQ - The plight of Iraq's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning or queer (LGBTQ) community returned to the spotlight last week when Kurdish security forces in Sulaymaniyah reportedly arrested several gay men. The government denied targeting the group, saying its operation was rather to crack down on prostitution. We are watching with concern the events in #Sulaymaniya that seem to be targeting members of the #LGBTI community for arrest. pic.twitter.com/bPiBXu7WZh

Members of the community told VOA the arrests of at least eight gay men on April 1 instilled fear among them, particularly after security forces reportedly attempted to force the men to undergo physical examinations. "I don't feel like I'm part of the Kurdish society," said Zhyar Ali, an activist member of the community. "There is so much discrimination against the LGBTQ community in Kurdistan. You don't feel there is room for you. It has unfortunately reached a level that most of the LGBTQ members are leaving the country."