Zaho SC signs Iraqi international Akam Hashim, rejects talk of Kurdish club rivalry

ZAKHO, Iraq — Iraqi Premier League side Zakho Sports Club has signed national-team midfielder Akam Hashim, club president Ciya Emin announced, calling the player the club's top choice among several candidates evaluated across multiple positions. Emin said the club had worked intensively to complete the transfer and was building a competitive squad for the new season. Emin dismissed social media claims of discrimination or conflict between Kurdish clubs, saying Zakho maintains good relations with Erbil, Duhok and Nowruz, and that the rumors do not reflect reality. He added that the club is working to expand its marketing and advertising revenue to reduce reliance on government support. Hashim, who previously played for Erbil, said wearing the Zakho shirt is a great personal honor and stressed that the move was his own choice. He said he continues to respect Kurdish clubs and their fans and has no dispute with Erbil. The squad is set to begin pre-season preparations within three to four days, with Emin describing the Hashim deal as the club's final signing of the window. No further transfer details were immediately available.