In a statement, the Assyrian Democratic Movement (Zowaa) festivities committee announced that events scheduled between April 1 and April 12 would not proceed, citing the ongoing war in the region and its impact on Iraq and its security, and in order to preserve the public safety of participants.
The committee instead encouraged Assyrians to observe the occasion in a more personal and local manner, stating: “Celebrate this national holiday in your own way, as a national tradition, among family members at home, in your village, and in your neighborhood, without large gatherings, in celebration of the New Year and in invoking the spirit of April: renewal, life, and freedom.”
Akitu is one of the most significant national events for Assyrians, traditionally marked by large-scale processions drawing tens of thousands from across the homeland and diaspora. In Nohadra, participants typically gather in a mass procession culminating in a central celebration, accompanied in recent years by a multi-day cultural festival featuring Assyrian artists and musicians from around the world.
The decision to cancel this year’s festivities comes amid heightened instability across northern Iraq. The region has experienced multiple drone incidents linked to the broader conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, along with Iran-aligned groups operating in Iraq. Reports indicate that areas across the Nineveh Plain, Nohadra, and Erbil have been affected by drone activity and falling debris from intercepted attacks.
The Assyria Post
In the Assyrian suburb of Ankawa, residents have reported repeated incidents involving drones targeting nearby military installations close to Erbil International Airport, raising further concerns about civilian safety.
The cancellation also follows security concerns stemming from last year’s incident during the Akitu procession, when a Syrian-Kurdish assailant affiliated with the so-called Islamic State carried out an axe attack, seriously injuring two participants before being subdued by bystanders. The attacker was later arrested and has since been sentenced to life imprisonment by the Erbil Criminal Court.
The Assyria Post
While this year’s cancellation marks a significant disruption to one of the Assyrian nation’s most visible annual celebrations, community leaders have emphasised that the spirit of Akitu – renewal, resilience, and continuity – will endure despite the absence of public gatherings.
