How did the Iraqi government respond to a Kurdish referendum for independence in 2017
The Iraqi government strongly opposed the Kurdish referendum for independence in 2017. The central government in Baghdad considered the referendum unconstitutional and a threat to Iraq's unity and sovereignty. In response to the referendum, the Iraqi government imposed economic sanctions on the Kurdistan Region, closed its airspace, and deployed military forces to disputed territories, such as the oil-rich city of Kirkuk.
The Iraqi government also called for dialogue and negotiations to address Kurdish grievances within the framework of the Iraqi constitution. However, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) proceeded with the referendum, which led to a breakdown in relations between Erbil and Baghdad.
Ultimately, the Iraqi government took military action to retake control of disputed territories and push back Kurdish forces. The conflict resulted in the loss of significant territory for the KRG and a setback for Kurdish aspirations for independence.