Jalal Talabani

Jalal Talabani (1933–2017) was a prominent Iraqi politician and statesman who founded the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK), advocating for Kurdish rights and autonomy. He served as Iraq’s President from 2005 to 2014, becoming the first Kurdish leader to hold this role in Iraq’s history. Talabani played a key role in Iraq's post-2003 political transition, working to promote national unity among diverse ethnic and religious groups. Known for his diplomatic skills and dedication to peace, he was a respected figure in Iraqi and regional politics, helping to navigate complex conflicts and fostering dialogue.