Ibar Bridge Heading Toward Reopening After Two Decades of Division? Professor Urges Caution

Following KFOR’s decision to begin a gradual transition away from its permanent military presence on the main bridge over the Ibar River in Mitrovica, the European Union has confirmed that the necessary criteria for opening it have been met. This development is considered significant for northern Kosovo and for efforts aimed at normalizing life in Mitrovica.

For years, the Ibar Bridge has represented one of the most visible symbols of the city’s division into two parts. For this reason, any change in its status carries political, social and security implications. However, it remains unclear whether the EU’s position means its opening is now only a matter of time and what effect the transition in KFOR’s presence could have on stability in the area.

Professor Nijazi Halili, speaking to “Bota Sot,” described the European Union’s confirmation as an important step, but warned that it should not automatically be interpreted as a sign that the bridge will open soon.

According to Halili, the Ibar Bridge has long been more than simply a piece of infrastructure, as it has become a symbol of the political and social division in Mitrovica. For this reason, he believes the decision on opening it should be made carefully and in full coordination with international and security mechanisms.

Commenting on the gradual change to KFOR’s permanent presence at the site, the professor said the process should not be viewed as a withdrawal from its responsibilities for maintaining security. He described it as a planned and coordinated transition.

Halili emphasized that stability in the north remains essential, and therefore any change on the ground should be implemented cautiously to avoid creating new tensions.

According to the professor, opening the bridge under safe conditions and through coordination could have a significant impact on ensuring freedom of movement and restoring normal life for Mitrovica’s residents.

However, he stressed that merely removing the physical barriers on the bridge would not be enough to overcome the long-standing divisions between the communities. According to him, this step should be accompanied by other measures that help build mutual trust.

Concluding his remarks to “Bota Sot,” Nijazi Halili said the goal should be to transform the bridge from a dividing line into a place that brings citizens closer together. He added that normalization in Mitrovica cannot be achieved solely by opening the bridge, but also requires security, dialogue, freedom of movement and the political will to overcome divisions.