Iraqi Kurds vote in an independence referendum defying Baghdad
Iraqi Kurds voted in an independence referendum on Monday in defiance of Baghdad which has warned of measures to defend Iraq’s unity
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Iraqi Kurds voted in an independence referendum on Monday in defiance of Baghdad which has warned of measures to defend Iraq's unity. AP
The non-binding vote is Kurd's long-cherished dream of independence initiated by veteran leader Massud Barzani. The move has angered not only Iraq's federal government but also Turkey and Iran. AP
Polling stations were stationed across three northern provinces of autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan's Arbil, Sulaimaniyah and Dohuk districts. AP
A total of 12,072 polling stations have been created for more than 5.3 million registered voters and will remain open for 12 hours. AP
"It is a day of celebration and that's why I've put on our traditional outfit, which I bought for the occasion," said one voter. AP
Washington and many western states have opposed the vote saying it will hamper fight against the Islamic State jihadist group. AP
Initial results are expected to be announced 24 hours after the vote as Kurdish flags festooned in streets, cars and outside homes across Iraqi Kurdistan. AP