Barzani

Who are the Barzani?

The Barzani are a Kurdish tribe and a confederation of several neighboring tribes, united by shared ancestry and leadership. They are centered in the Barzan region of northern Iraq. The Barzani are known for their strong tribal structure and for being led by a hereditary sheikh. Their influence extends to political, social, and religious life in the region. The Barzani confederation includes the Sherwani, Muzuri, Beroji, Nizari, Dolomari, Herki bneji, and Gerdi tribes. Their identity is shaped by a combination of tribal loyalty, religious tradition, and a history of resistance.

Where do the Barzani live?

The Barzani live in the Barzan region, which is part of the Kurdistan Region in northern Iraq. This area is mountainous and has historically provided both a home and a natural refuge for the tribe. The land is important to their identity and has been the center of their social and political life. The region has also been the site of repeated conflict and displacement, especially during times of persecution.

What language do the Barzani speak?

The Barzani speak Kurdish. Kurdish is an Indo-European language spoken by Kurds across several countries in the Middle East. The sources do not specify which dialect is spoken by the Barzani, but Kurdish is central to their identity and daily life.

How is Barzani society organised?

Barzani society is organized around tribal and clan structures, with leadership typically passed down through the Barzani family. The sheikh, a hereditary leader, plays a central role in guiding the tribe and making decisions. The Barzani confederation includes several other tribes, who are united under the authority of the Barzani sheikh. Family and kinship ties are strong, and the tribe has historically provided asylum and support to neighboring Kurdish groups.

What do the Barzani believe?

Most Barzani today are Naqshbandi Sufis, a mystical branch of Sunni Islam. The tribe originally followed the Yezidi faith before converting in the 19th century. The Barzani have also included Jewish members. Religious life has centered around the local tekkeyeh, a Sufi lodge, which has served as a spiritual and social hub. Rituals, religious leadership, and spiritual guidance are important aspects of Barzani culture.

The history of the Barzani

The Barzani were originally Yezidis who converted to Naqshbandi Sufi Islam in the 19th century. Under the leadership of Barzani sheikhs, they established a tekkeyeh that became a center for local Kurdish tribes and a base for seeking autonomy from the Ottoman Empire. The tribe has faced repeated persecution, including attacks by the Iraqi Army and Royal Air Force in the 20th century, mass displacement, and the massacre of over 8,000 men and boys during the Anfal campaign under Saddam Hussein. The Barzani family has produced many prominent Kurdish leaders.

Barzani life today

Today, the Barzani remain influential in Kurdish politics, with several family members holding key positions in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The tribe continues to face challenges related to displacement and the legacy of past persecution. Their homeland in Barzan is still central to their identity, and they play a significant role in the region’s social and political life.

Questions people ask about the Barzani

Sources and further reading

• Barzani (tribe) on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Barzani themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.