MP Srwa Mohammed announced two major breakthroughs for Khanaqin, stating that the Iraqi government has approved a new local passport office while a federal committee begins resolving a documentation freeze that has affected thousands of local families since 2016. 

Speaking to Channel8, the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) lawmaker announced that the Federal Ministry of Interior has granted formal approval to establish a passport office in central Khanaqin.

The decision follows extensive legislative efforts to resolve a long-standing shortage, as the district has lacked a dedicated passport facility until now. 

Consequently, local residents were forced to travel long distances to Diyala and Baqubah to issue or renew their travel documents. 

Technical Equipment Arrives Next Week 

Mohammed confirmed that computers and the necessary technical infrastructure are scheduled to arrive in Khanaqin next week to facilitate the office's launch. 

She emphasized that the opening of the local center will permanently eliminate the need for residents to travel to other provinces for passport services.

Clerical Error Leaves 5,000 Families in Identity Freeze 

Regarding the ongoing document crisis, the lawmaker told Channel 8 that a clerical error by a Khanaqin National Card Office employee has left approximately 5,000 families facing legal hurdles since 2016. 

The administrative freeze blocked the affected citizens from issuing or renewing essential identification, including National Cards, Information Cards, and Food Ration Cards. 

Committee Begins Resolving Blocked Khanaqin National Cards 

Addressing the steps taken to resolve the issue, Mohammed noted that following discussions with the General Directorate of Nationality and Civil Status, a high-level audit committee was established in Baghdad. 

The committee has already commenced its work, successfully auditing and resolving the cases of more than 1,000 families to date.

The lawmaker emphasized the follow-up process for the remaining cases, stating that any family still experiencing this issue must present their case to the visiting committee. Their documentation issues will be systematically resolved following a successful audit.