International Delegation: Öcalan must be released and concrete peace talks must be taken

The international delegation applied to the Ministry of Justice requesting to meet with Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan who is held in aggravated isolation in İmralı Island Prison.


ANF
ANKARA
Tuesday, 3 December 2024

The International Delegation, which arrived in Turkey to demand the lifting of isolation in İmralı, made a statement after submitting a petition to the Ministry of Justice.

The delegation includes Walter Baier, President of the European Left Party; Francesca Ghirra & Matteo Massa, members of the Italian Green Left Alliance; Eduardo Jorge Costa Pinto, member of the Portuguese Parliament; Eulàlia Reguant Cura, Catalan Parliament Member; Blai Tabarner, Board Member of the Catalan CUP; Anne Kulseng Berg, Leader of the Kurdish Solidarity Group of the Norwegian Red Party; Caterina Posterino, Director of the Italian General Confederation of Labor; Francesca Baruffaldi, Director of the Italian Confederation of Workers; Journalists Benedetta Rossi & Daniela Galie; Raphaëlle Primet, Chair of the Communist Group of the Paris City Council; Jakob Migenda, Representative of the Left Party of Hesse, Germany; and Yusuf Karaçelik, Representative of the Left Party in Germany. The delegation was accompanied by Ebru Günay, DEM Party Vice Co-Chair Responsible for Foreign Affairs, members of the Party's Executive Board, and MPs.

After submitting the petition to the Ministry of Justice, the delegation held a press conference in front of the Ministry.

MP Saliha Aydeniz: Turkey’s government and state must now listen to Mr. Öcalan’s role, his position, and his will for peace

DEM Party MP Saliha Aydeniz stated: "We are here in front of the Ministry of Justice. Our party, along with many other institutions, has been working to resolve the Kurdish issue through democratic methods and approaches. We have always said that if there is to be a dignified peace in Turkey, it must be achieved through democratic means. We will continue to say this. Today, we are joined by an international delegation. The purpose of their visit is to request a meeting with Mr. Öcalan. For a democratic resolution of the Kurdish issue, the government and the state must now listen to Mr. Öcalan’s role, his position, and his will for peace, not just through words or gestures but through concrete actions."

Following the brief speech by MP Saliha Aydeniz, the delegation’s statement was delivered by Benedetta Rossi.

Support for the DEM Party

The statement said: "We are here to support the DEM Party and show solidarity with the Kurdish people. We believe that, especially at this time, it is essential to engage with the Turkish government to explore potential strategies for constructive dialogue, and it is vital to highlight the importance of Mr. Abdullah Öcalan’s voice in this process.

After the invasion of Tal Rifaat and the attack on Kurdish districts in Aleppo, the Kurdish population risks annihilation. As a matter of fact, since 26 November, Aleppo region has been at the centre of an unprecedented military escalation that is jeopardising the lives of thousands of civilians, especially those belonging to the Kurdish population. The situation is extremely tense and increasingly vulnerable civilians are facing an unprecedented siege and humanitarian crisis."

Rojava is a beacon of hope

The statement added: "The Rojava Revolution was a unique experience of self-determination, human rights and resistance against oppression. Originating in the Kurdish lands of northern Syria, the revolution has built a system that promotes gender equality, direct democracy and peaceful coexistence between different ethnic groups and religions. In a context of conflict and instability, Rojava has been a beacon of hope, showing the world that it is possible to build an inclusive and just society, even under the most difficult conditions.

The resilience of Kurdish forces has had a decisive impact in the fight against Islamic State terrorism, contributing to the stabilisation of the region. Nonetheless, ten years after the historic Kobane resistance that put an end to ISIS expansion, this model of society is currently being threatened, with the annihilation not only of the Kurdish people, but also of the values of freedom and democracy that Rojava embodies."

Open the door to a political solution to the Syrian civil war

The statement continued: "Therefore, we would like to make a strong appeal: Swift and decisive action is needed to stop the violence and avoid a new humanitarian catastrophe. The future of Syria, and especially of the communities living there, is uncertain, but hope lies in international solidarity and a concrete political and humanitarian response that can guarantee the security and dignity of all the peoples of the region and open the door to a political solution to the Syrian civil war.

We want to reiterate today that the situation of the Kurdish people has implications both for Turkey and the international community. We believe Mr. Abdullah Öcalan's contribution is crucial in facilitating dialogue and promoting understanding between the Turkish government and Kurdish communities. Mr. Öcalan's efforts, particularly in 2013-2015, were significant, as he advocated a peaceful resolution through a carefully crafted road map. This approach received a positive response from those who were willing to actively engage in this peace process.

The deprivation of Mr. Öcalan's inalienable human rights on the island prison of Imrali, where he has been held in isolation for 25 years, ignores international and national jurisdiction. On 18 March 2014, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) ruled that the sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole imposed on Mr. Öcalan constitutes a violation of Article 3 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR)."

Need for release of Mr. Öcalan and concrete peace talks

The statement pointed out that: "This article of the Convention states that no one shall be subjected to torture, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment. The court also ruled that his sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole violated his fundamental right to hope, effectively amounting to a prolonged death sentence.

In its judgment of 19 September 2014, the Council of Europe's Committee of Ministers also called on Turkey to comply with the ECHR rulings. Despite all these criticisms and rulings, the illegal isolation of Mr. Abdullah Öcalan has continued since 2021.

We are here to remind the Turkish government about this important ruling of international law and to appeal to their sense of justice and compliance with the basic principles of democracy and human rights. Therefore, we strongly demand the immediate release of Mr. Öcalan and the start of concrete peace talks and we will be determined to continue our effort in this direction until a just peace agreement for Kurdish people is reached and Mr. Öcalan is finally free."

PAJK: The PKK is the identity, hope and will of free women and the Kurdish people

Marking the 46th anniversary of the founding of the PKK, PAJK said that the PKK is the party of human dignity as well as the search for truth and has become the hope of salvation for peoples more than ever.


ANF
NEWS DESK
Wednesday, 27 November 2024

Partiya Azadiya Jinên Kurdistanê (PAJK) Coordination made a written statement on the 46th anniversary of the establishment of PKK. ‘PKK is the Identity, Hope and Will of Free Women and the Kurdish People,’ said the statement on PAJK's official website.

The Party of Free Women in Kurdistan (Partiya Azadiya Jinên Kurdistanê, PAJK) made a written statement on the 46th anniversary of the establishment of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) on 27 November 1978 in the village of Fis in Amed (tr. Diyarbakir) province.

The statement by PAJK Coordination reads as follows:

“We welcome the 46th anniversary of the founding of the PKK with great enthusiasm and excitement, and on the occasion of this day, we congratulate Leader Apo (Abdullah Öcalan), who built the PKK as a result of great labour and who is the architect of the PKK. We congratulate comrades Haki Karer, Sakîne Cansız, Kemal Pîr, Mazlum Doğan, who took part in the first years of the establishment of the PKK and were among the pioneers, and all the martyrs who fought heroically and contributed greatly to the establishment of the PKK on its founding anniversary. Happy founding anniversary of the PKK to all women fighters and revolutionaries in the ranks of the honourable freedom struggle, to our people, to the mothers of martyrs who stood by the PKK and have survived until today and to the guerrillas.

The PKK has waged an unremitting and relentless struggle against the politics of denial and annihilation and has reached this point with the same will and determination as on the first day. The PKK is the identity, hope and will of free women and the Kurdish people. The PKK will always exist, because the PKK is the idea and philosophy of free women and free society. The PKK's struggle against the ‘fascist’ policies of the Turkish state is expanding and spreading. The PKK has made great sacrifices by giving conscientious and moral support to the resistance of the people.

The announcement of the founding of the PKK came at a dangerous and important time, when there was a great need for an intellectual and ideological vanguard to save society from genocide, cultural and national assimilation, and the pollution of the fascist politics of the Turkish state. With limited opportunities, the real leadership laid down the scientific basis and measures for the construction of a social, national and democratic liberation revolution based on women's liberation. This was done following the analytical and strategic historical studies carried out by Leader Abdullah Öcalan together with a group of ideological and intellectual friends. The anniversary of the founding of the party was a historic response and revenge against the fascist and occupying Turkish state. It was also the beginning of a new dawn towards the construction of the process of great national transformation. It restored hope and confidence among sections of Kurdistan society. This step turned into a revolution for the liberation of the Kurdish people and Kurdistan under the leadership of women and youth. This revolution represented the will of the libertarian peoples of the region and the world because of the heroism of the party members who chose the path of resistance and hard struggle on the road to freedom, and who wrote heroic epics in prisons, mountains and cities to defend cultural, political and social values against the fascist and occupying Turkish state.

The history of the PKK is full of events. The PKK has faced many obstacles and difficulties due to regional and international conspiracies against the philosophy of the Kurdistan Freedom Movement. To this day, the fascist Turkish state is waging a bloody war against the will of the Kurdish people everywhere, carrying out massacres every day, using all kinds of weapons, including chemical weapons. These atrocities are being committed in response to the global campaigns of support for the physical freedom of Leader Abdullah Öcalan, a political solution to the Kurdish question and the celebrations of the party's anniversary.

The PKK has played an important role in raising the Democratic Nation struggle in the Middle East and the world. The third line, which all peoples in the Middle East speak of, expresses itself through resistance against regional and hegemonic reactionary attacks and the attacks of the fascist and genocidal Turkish state. Taking the women's liberation line, the political line, the organised system that forms the consciousness and heart of women as its basis, the PKK has spread its influence to all leftist, ecological and libertarian sections of the world and is leading them. In its 47th year, more than ever, the PKK has reached the free society of Kurdistan and the Middle East, the Democratic Nation and women's freedom.

The PKK is the party of human dignity as well as the search for truth. In the 21st century, as the most revolutionary, dynamic and transformative party, it has become the hope of salvation for peoples more than ever. With its Democratic, Ecological and Women's Libertarian paradigm, the PKK is the source from which the whole society feeds. The PKK represents a peaceful solution and a democratic life with its Democratic Nation understanding against nation-statist and nationalist organisations. The PKK is the most assertive freedom movement against the male-dominated mind and culture with its socialist and women's libertarian understanding. Against capitalist modernity, our party, the PKK, is the only force that builds democratic modernity. We welcome the PKK's 47th year of struggle with great desire, determination and enthusiasm.

The genocidal AKP-MHP fascism is the enemy of all social values and represents world hegemony and capitalist modernity. As long as it remains on this fascist and monist line, it makes the whole society sick like cancer, growing into a gang and mafia. The PKK, which is experiencing the strongest time of its universal struggle, resisted against the strongest fascist power in this process and did not step back from its struggle. In particular, the struggle led by the HPG and YJA Star guerrillas broke the AKP-MHP fascism during the resistance process. The fascist Turkish state suffered blows and defeat at the hands of the YJA Star guerrillas.

The tactical mastery that emerged in this process has become a historical example. The PKK's prevailing resistance and struggle against the policies of the fascist Turkish state has grown and spread. As a result of this will and insistence on self-defence, it is the method of resistance of the age. The PKK has made great sacrifices for the moral and conscientious resistance of the peoples in Shengal, Maxmur, Bakur (North Kurdistan), Northeast Syria and all Kurdistan. Our Freedom Movement creates meaning and values in every moment with its army of martyrs and shakes the ground of the colonialist system with women's leadership and women's struggle. On this occasion, in the person of comrade Medya Egit, one of the pioneering militants of the PKK and PAJK and member of the YJA Star Military Council, and one of the greatest examples of this truth, we salute all our comrades who insist on victory on the line of sacrifice and fight with great resistance and determination for a free life.

We salute the heroic history of the PKK and consider its freedom stance and humanitarian approach sacred. We salute the Kurdish people and all other organisations, all freedom fighters and world democrats who advocate for the physical freedom of Leader Abdullah Öcalan and the solution of the Kurdish question.

We call on all libertarian, democratising and political forces of Kurdistan, Arab, global and civil society activities, women's, cultural and legal organisations to join the campaigns of support. This move shows the strength and will of societies to make a joint effort for the realisation of the physical freedom of Leader Abdullah Öcalan. It is also the only guarantee of appropriate solutions in this difficult process in the region and the world.”

The PKK gives meaning and importance to culture

TEV-ÇAND co-chairs of the Afrin-Shehba Canton said that Kurdish culture and art were not given enough importance before the PKK, and emphasized that after its establishment, culture was also accepted as an important part of the revolution.


ROJ DENİZ-RÛKEN EFRÎN
SHEHBA
Monday, 25 November 2024

Henan Sîdo and Newroz Silêman, TEV-ÇAND co-chairs of the Afrin-Sheba Canton, spoke to the ANF about the importance of Kurdish culture.

Henan Sîdo said that the PKK was not only a political and military movement, but also played an important role in the construction of social culture, and added: "Before the PKK, culture was not given enough importance within social movements, but with the PKK and its revolution, culture has become important in terms of society and revolution. The cultural movement played a major role in the revolution. We were initially established as a group and developed our work step by step. If the consciousness of protecting culture is at the core of a revolution, this revolution will be successful."

Sîdo added: "For this reason, the Freedom Movement has successfully resisted all attacks and plans targeting us for 50 years. Because this movement brought together and organized all segments of society. When we built our institutions with the Autonomous Administration process, TEV-ÇAND also organized within itself and actively participated in the revolutionary work. Before the establishment of the PKK, many political and national structures were established, but none of them gave the necessary importance to culture. The PKK, on ​​the other hand, became a pioneer in this field with the importance it gave to culture and its support. Culture reveals the identity of a society in revolution. The Kurdish people embrace their history and identity. Our work on this basis continues today."

A heritage reaching from Ayşe Şan to Martyr Mizgîn

Emphasizing that the development of Kurdish culture gained momentum with the establishment of the PKK, Afrin-Shehba TEV-ÇAND co-chair Newroz Silêman said: "The process that started with Rêber Apo [Abdullah Öcalan] and his friends in 1978 was a turning point for the Kurdish people. This was the creation of a new history and life. Women artists went through great difficulties and dark periods. Our emotions seemed to be trapped between four walls. However, thanks to the Freedom Movement and its resistance, women can now freely express their feelings and talents. For the first time, women’s freedom has become so debatable and women have found their own identities. The importance the Leader gives to women is a major factor in this. That is why, today, we women also embrace this labor and continue on this path."

Silêman added: “Today, thousands of women artists have emerged under the leadership of martyr Mizgîn and martyr Delîla. These martyrs took the lead, raised their voices, and said, we are women, we exist, we will develop our art in every field, we will use our art to serve the revolutionary people. With the growth of the Freedom Movement, we can say that today, as women, we have achieved our dreams and aspirations. Because when we were young, we did not have this many opportunities to develop ourselves and spread our voice everywhere, but today, thanks to the Freedom Movement and the martyrs, thousands of young women are filling the squares with their love, voice and color. Thanks to the Freedom Movement, every woman discovered her own talents and offered them to the service of society. Revolutionary art has come to this day with a legacy that extends from Ayşe Şan and Meryemxan to the martyrs Mizgîn and Delila. We are taking over this legacy and calling on young people to be the voice of society through art.”

YPJ: We will hold the Turkish state and its mercenaries accountable on the frontlines of resistance

Condemning the captivity of female fighters from the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh Protection Forces, YPJ called on young women to join their ranks and take their place on the frontlines of defense: “Only in this way can we protect our land and dignity."


ANF
NEWS DESK
Monday, 2 December 2024, 

During their attacks on North-East Syrian region, the jihadist alliance ‘Syrian National Army’ (SNA) took people from the Kurdish neighborhoods of Aleppo hostage and deported them to the Turkish occupation zone. It is still unclear how many hostages are currently in the hands of terrorists. Women who are members of the Hêzên Parastina Civakî (HPC) and are involved in civil resistance in Sheikh Maksud and Ashrafia are among the victims of kidnapping.

The General Command of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) released a statement calling for action to expose the brutality of the Turkish occupation state and its mercenaries on a global scale, revealing the extent of their terrorism and holding Erdoğan and the Turkish occupation state accountable for this war and the atrocities committed against the captured young women.

The YPJ statement calling on international women's and human rights organisations to stand up for the hostages includes the following:.

“Over the past several days, our region, along with all of the Syrian territory, has been subjected to a large-scale attack from multiple fronts. It began in Aleppo, where the Syrian people were left face to face with horrific massacres. Simultaneously, these attacks targeted our areas in North and East Syria, where we have demonstrated relentless resistance against these extensive assaults, particularly in the regions of Shehba and Aleppo. Our people, led by women, have shown great resilience in the face of these attacks.

Our people in Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh, who have gained extensive experience in resistance and warfare over the years, have once again organized themselves against these assaults. Operating under the name of the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh Protection Forces, they have thwarted dozens of attacks by mercenaries of the Turkish occupation state.

Undoubtedly, the war continues on multiple fronts. Unfortunately, several young men and women of the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh Liberation Forces have fallen captive to these mercenaries. These barbaric mercenaries, who have no regard for the ethics or laws of war, have heinously violated the dignity of the women prisoners, using them as tools for propaganda on their media outlets. They have shamelessly declared to the captive women that they would once again sell them in slave markets. Such actions are utterly inhumane and must not be tolerated.

As the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), we strongly condemn the brutal acts of the Turkish occupation mercenaries against the captured women and pledge that we will avenge them. We call upon international organizations, particularly Amnesty International and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), as well as all women’s and human rights organizations, to fulfill their duties in protecting these women who defended their neighborhoods and cities. We insist on the necessity of safeguarding their rights as prisoners of war.

The atrocities committed today by the Turkish occupation mercenaries against the captured young women mirror those carried out by the terrorist organization “ISIS” in 2014 in Sinjar, Mosul, and Raqqa, where thousands of women were sold in slave markets. These actions represent the patriarchal mindset that reached its peak with “ISIS” and Erdoğan’s mercenaries. They are well aware that Kurdish women have written heroic epics against their barbaric practices, resisting to the very end. This is why their inhumane practices have escalated to the level of outright hostility against women.

We direct our call to women’s rights organizations, civil society organizations, prominent figures, freedom advocates, and democrats to protect the captive women. It is imperative to expose the brutality of the Turkish occupation state and its mercenaries on a global scale, revealing the extent of their terrorism and holding Erdoğan and the Turkish occupation state accountable for this war and the atrocities committed against the captured young women.

As the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), we once again condemn the captivity of the female fighters from the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh Protection Forces. We affirm that we will hold the Turkish occupation state and its mercenaries accountable on the frontlines of resistance. In this context, during these historic days marked by extensive attacks on our regions and Syria as a whole, we declare that we stand on the frontlines to protect all women and our people. We also call upon all young women, wherever they may be, to join the ranks of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) and take their place on the frontlines of defense. Only in this way can we protect our land and dignity.”

YPJ Forum on Women and Protection: We shall transform every day into a day of resistance

Women's movements and organisations participating in the Second Forum on Women and Protection in the Middle East reiterated their commitment to continue and strengthen the struggle in the region.


ANF
TABQA
Tuesday, 26 November 2024

The Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) held the Second Forum on Women and Protection in the Middle East under the slogan “An Organized Woman is a Strong Woman, and a Strong Woman is the Foundation of Self-Protection.”

The forum was held in Tabqa on Monday with the participation of 500 delegates, including women's organisations, YPJ fighters and military council members.



The forum at Tabqa Culture and Art Centre started with a moment of silence, followed by a speech by the YPJ General Commander, Sozdar Dêrik, who said, “We will not let any obstacle affect our struggle. This struggle will lead us to victory.”

Sozdar Dêrik drew attention to the importance of women's emancipation and strengthening their self-defence and said, ‘We need to liberate all women so that they can get their rights, be strong and protected. This has been our primary goal from the beginning.”

Dêrik noted that the wars in the Middle East serve the interests of the powers, not the peoples. Describing the conflicts in many countries such as Lebanon, Syria, Palestine and Yemen as ‘wars of genocide’, Sozdar Dêrik emphasised that women's struggle plays a key role in overcoming the destruction caused by these wars.

Stating that the slogan ‘Jin, Jiyan, Azadî’ (Woman, Life, Freedom) has become a philosophy of freedom for women's movements around the world, Sozdar Dêrik noted that this slogan has been banned in Amed tr: Diyarbakır) in Northern Kurdistan and said that the occupying policies in Turkey aim to suppress the women's struggle.



The forum also discussed Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan’s evaluations of the role of women in the democratic transformation of the Middle East, which highlighted the historical importance of women in the struggle for social freedom.

A video message sent by the Party of Free Women in Kurdistan (PAJK) and a cinevision show on women's struggle in Northern and Eastern Syria were also screened.



The forum discussed in detail the protection of women, the strengthening of the culture of self-defence and the leading role of women in the construction of a democratic and ecological society. The forum also discussed efforts to develop strategies to build regional defence mechanisms with the goal of providing a safe and sustainable environment for women.

Following the discussions, the forum ended with the reading of messages, theatre performances and songs. Women's movements and organisations participating in the forum reiterated their commitment to continue and strengthen the struggle in the region.



The final declaration of the Second Forum on Women and Protection in the Middle East includes the following:

“At the outset of this concluding statement, and to ensure it remains a luminous beacon for a world filled with greater justice, freedom, peace, and security, we honor the memory of the Butterflies of Freedom—the Mirabal sisters—and our fallen comrades, who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for freedom. Among them are Martyr Nalîn Mûş, Helîn Karê, Şevîn Karzan, Jiyan Tolhildan, Rojna Aqîd, Leyla Aqre, and Arîn Mîrkan. We extend our deepest respect to their noble spirits, remembering them as towering symbols of sacrifice and unyielding determination. These heroines, who offered their lives on the altar of humanity, are not mere fleeting memories in the history of our people and homeland. Their legacy is a guiding light that strengthens our resolve in defending our dignity and freedom as women.

Through this forum, we renew our commitment to the ideology of Leader Abdullah Öcalan, a symbol of free thought and a pioneer of democratic confederalism. His philosophy embodies sincere camaraderie with women and supports their struggle for liberation. We affirm our participation in the campaign for Öcalan’s physical freedom, believing that his liberation represents the freedom of women and the key to peace and dignity for all peoples.

The Second Forum on Women and Protection convened on November 25, 2024, under the slogan “An Organized Woman is a Strong Woman, and a Strong Woman is the Foundation of Self-Protection.”

It took place during an exceptionally critical juncture, amidst highly sensitive regional and international conditions. The Middle East, due to its strategic location and diverse makeup, has become a theater for global competition and a battleground for the Third World War, with all its devastating consequences. This forum brings together distinguished women leaders and representatives of feminist organizations from various regions to discuss the realities of women’s roles and the enormous challenges they endure as a result of the conflicts ravaging the area.

This global conflict, now an all-encompassing international struggle, has caused catastrophic repercussions for women in the Middle East. Women have not only become victims of the most egregious forms of violence but have also been systematically targeted in these brutal wars, culminating in comprehensive genocidal campaigns. For instance:

In Kurdistan’s mountains, the Free Women’s Troops (YJA-STAR) confront the fiercest assaults, including the use of internationally banned chemical weapons.

In northern and eastern Syria, women face systematic eradication by the Turkish fascist state, which not only unleashes the most barbaric military attacks but also seeks to annihilate the cultural and societal essence of Syrian women to dismantle the resilience of the entire populace.

In Palestine and Lebanon, women bear the brunt of catastrophic wars, enduring occupation and oppression while paying a high price.

In Iranian and Turkish prisons, the situation is even more dire, as women are executed or sentenced to life imprisonment simply for raising their voices for freedom under the slogan: “Women – Life – Freedom.”

Women have never been incidental victims of war and conflict; rather, they have been deliberate targets. By terrorizing women, oppressive forces aim to intimidate societies. By breaking women’s will, they break the will of nations, and by undermining women’s dignity, they undermine the dignity of entire communities. Women, as the foundation of strong, cohesive societies, are directly targeted by forces of war to dismantle societal structures and erode collective strength and resolve.

Yet, despite this grim reality, women remain an inexhaustible source of energy. Like the phoenix, they rise from their ashes, resilient against the tides of time. Women refuse to be mere victims at the altar of monstrous tyranny. They embody a perpetual revolution, resilient against adversity, and unyielding in the face of calamities, with no place for surrender in their vocabulary.

The Free Women’s Troops (YJA-STAR), the Women’s Defense Forces in Eastern Kurdistan (HPJ), the Women’s Units of Shengal (YJŞ), the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), the Beth Nahrain Syriac Forces, the Khabur Assyrian Guard, and the Women’s Civil Defense Forces (HPC-JIN) in northern and eastern Syria have collectively reflected the essence of women’s reality and strength. These military entities stand as exemplary models of women’s resistance, showcasing their determination to protect their identities. These forces have played a pioneering role in building a defensive system rooted in confederal and communal principles, challenging centralized authoritarianism, and paving the way for democratic societal structures.

These entities have demonstrated an unparalleled ability to transform suffering into a force for resolution, turning tragedy into an opportunity for revival. Women, through these organizations, have become pivotal to constructing a new world based on freedom, justice, and equality. They have emerged as symbols of a humanitarian project that transcends traditional authority, fostering societal relations built on solidarity and collective organization.

Amid these existential challenges, this forum underscores that establishing a women’s defense system within the framework of a Women’s Confederation in the Middle East is not merely an option but an urgent moral and humanitarian necessity. This system will serve as a shield to safeguard dreams of social justice, making our shared struggle a launchpad for building a future of peace and humanity where women lead the journey for freedom and dignity.

Key Discussion Points:

- The impact of the Third World War and escalating conflicts on Middle Eastern women and strategies for addressing these challenges.

- The obstacles facing women in protection and defense.

- Policies and measures required to ensure the protection of women.

- Promoting the culture of women’s self-defense as a tool for empowerment.

- Practical strategies for building local and regional defense mechanisms to protect women and guarantee their active leadership in constructing democratic and ecological societies that uphold women’s freedom.

- Strengthening collaboration with feminist movements to create a safe and sustainable environment for women in the Middle East.

Strategic Recommendations:

- Establishing a Women’s Security and Protection Council in northern and eastern Syria.

- Forming a Women’s Security and Protection Council for the Middle East.

- Strengthening integrated national and regional policies to protect women.

- Developing educational programs to equip women with the skills and knowledge needed to defend their identity and to enhance their capacities in politics and diplomacy concerning protection and defense.

- Sharing intellectual and practical experiences in women’s self-defense to counter systematic genocides and sexual violence.

- Building feminist support networks at local and regional levels to encourage women’s engagement in community security and defense.

- Launching training initiatives to empower women in community defense roles and prepare them for leadership in protecting their communities.

- Collaborating with international feminist organizations to establish joint mechanisms offering support and training for women in conflict zones.

- Enhancing regional cooperation to create shared platforms for exchanging expertise and providing practical solutions to women’s protection issues.

- Developing a regional framework to implement the forum’s recommendations and unify policies for safeguarding women and reinforcing their role in peace-building and societal protection.

- Partnering with global human rights organizations and feminist institutions to direct regional efforts toward creating a safe and free environment for women in the Middle East.

Let these recommendations be the agenda of our united struggle on this International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, reminding us all of the urgent need for solidarity and unity in confronting these genocides. We must not be misled by the false promises and hollow commitments of patriarchal systems. Instead, we shall transform every day into a day of resistance under the banner: “With the Philosophy of ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’, We Will Protect Ourselves.”

Journalist Demhat Tolhildan: Attacks in Syria were planned by the Turkish state

Journalist Demhat Tolhildan said that HTS is advancing unhindered in Syria, and that the jihadists have been trained and equipped by Turkey.


ANF
NEWS DESK
Monday, 2 December 2024


The terrorist organization Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) is continuing its attacks on Aleppo and the surrounding area. A large part of Aleppo and other towns are now under the control of the Syrian Al-Qaeda offshoot, which used to call itself Al-Nusra. The Syrian army has withdrawn from the cities’ boroughs without fighting back. Journalist Demhat Tolhildan is monitoring developments on the ground and spoke to ANF about the current situation.

"The jihadists are encountering no resistance"

Tolhildan said that the HTS was advancing in a wide area from Hama to Dera, and added: "They are encountering no resistance, the Damascus regime troops and Russia are leaving the area to them everywhere. The attack was well-prepared, and at the same time sleeper cells were activated in the region controlled by Damascus."

Situation in the Kurdish neighborhoods in Aleppo

Regarding the situation in the neighborhoods of Aleppo, where Kurds mainly live, Tolhildan said that the population is organized and ready for self-defense. There have been no attacks, and in Şêxmeqsûd (Sheikh Maksud) the attempts to enter by HTS mercenaries were prevented by the HPC (Social Defense Forces). "The gangs are attacking in Shehba and the area around al-Bab," said Tolhildan. Except the Kurdish-populated areas in the greater Aleppo area, all boroughs have come under the control of the gangs. Many people have fled to the Kurdish neighborhoods and the areas of Northern and Eastern Syria controlled by the Autonomous Administration. It is clearly not possible for all these people to live in the areas now controlled by the gangs.

Turkey as the mastermind of the attacks

Tolhildan went on to say that the Turkish state had indirectly confirmed that it was the mastermind of the attack. He pointed to the military equipment carried by the gangs and said that it ranged from thermal night vision systems to kamikaze drones. For him, it is clear that the mercenaries have been trained by Turkey. For example, the unit responsible for the use of kamikaze drones called itself the "Şahin" group after the Turkish word for falcon. "Şahin is not an Arabic word. Apparently the Turkish state even chose the name of the group," said Demhat Tolhildan, adding: "The entire planning was done by the Turkish state and presented to the gangs. Without backing, they would not have attacked anywhere. The Turkish state lets them attack and sees the changing balance of power as an opportunity for itself."

NATO's mandate and Turkish interest

Demhat Tolhildan said that the attack was not taking place without the knowledge of NATO and the US. "There is a striking parallel between the statements of Turkey and the US. The Turkish state is protecting the Islamist groups in Syria on behalf of NATO,” the journalist said, adding: "Turkey is fulfilling NATO's order to control the jihadist groups and hold back the refugees from Syria. At the same time, it is also using these gangs for its own plans."

Russia and Iran are weakened

Tolhildan said: "The US may have given the green light for the attack in its own interests in order to weaken Russia in the region. Another factor is Israel's security. Russia is weakened due to the war in Ukraine and has withdrawn technical forces from Syria. Iran has also been hit by the conflicts in the region. Russia and Iran do not want to give up this area and would like to intervene, but they are not in a position to do so due to their current weakness."

Attacks on Kurdish-populated areas

Regarding the dangers for the Kurdish population, Demhat Tolhildan recalled the ISIS attack and said: "In 2014, ISIS wanted to advance to Damascus, but then changed course and attacked the Kurds. The same forces that diverted ISIS back then will now instigate their mercenary gangs against the Kurds. Anyone who claims that the gangs will not attack the Kurds is wrong. The Arab population in Tall Rifat, who support coexistence with the Kurds, is already being attacked. The Turkish state will take the opportunity and have its gangs attack the Kurdish-populated areas."

"The way to protect the revolution is to resist"

Tolhildan said that the Rojava Revolution succeeded thanks to the common struggle of the peoples, and added that resistance is the only way to protect it.

Drawing attention to the fact that the problems of the region could be solved with a system based on a democratic nation, Tolhildan said: "Resistance will also strengthen the national spirit of the Kurds. There should be resistance with a spirit of mobilization against the attacks of gang groups. The only way to protect the gains of the Rojava Revolution is to resist with a spirit of mobilization."

To defend Rojava is to defend humanity

The situation is serious, the danger is great. If effective resistance is not put up, the values of the revolution may be lost. To defend Rojava is to defend Kurdistan. To defend Rojava is to defend women's freedom. To defend Rojava is to defend humanity!


SELAHATTİN SORO
NEWS DESK
Monday, 2 December 2024,

UK Defence Minister John Healey arrived in Ankara on 14 November and visited TUSAŞ (Turkish Aerospace Industries Incorporated Company) together with Yaşar Güler. Mark Rutte, the new Secretary General of NATO, arrived in Ankara on 25 November, and he also chose TUSAŞ as the place of his visit.

Ronen Bar, the head of Israel's domestic intelligence agency Shin Bet, had a secret meeting with Ibrahim Kalın, the head of the Turkish National Intelligence Organisation (MIT), on 18 November.

In my opinion, this traffic may be quite sufficient to give us some clues and the codes of the developments.

In the light of all these developments, while Kurds and their friends around the world were celebrating the 46th anniversary of the PKK with great enthusiasm and excitement, in the UK capital London, the homes, workplaces and institutions of Kurdish patriots, which have been operating under British law for years, were raided by the police at around 03.00 in the morning on 27 November. While this practice is still going on, and the detained patriots are still in custody, Kurds and their friends continue their resistance outside.

Another interesting and strategically important event is the sudden attack launched by the Idlib-based terrorist organisation Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), also known as al-Nusra or Jabhed-ul-Nusra, the Syrian al-Qaeda, under the leadership of Mohammed Colani, against the city of Aleppo, and the new and critical situation on the Syrian ground.

As we all know, ‘political and fundamental Islam’ is a British creation. Al-Qaeda, which was formed in Afghanistan, Turkey and Pakistan on the basis of the Green Belt Project based on ‘Political Islam’ against the Soviets, was trained by intelligence organisations, and after the collapse of the Soviet Union, these movements took on new names and forms and still continue their existence effectively. In the last stage of this process, HTS, as a radical element of the Ikhwan-ı Muslim line, has organised and developed itself as a small Islamic emirate in the Idlib region of Syria under the auspices and supervision of the Turkish state. Idlib and neighbouring areas have turned into a small Afghanistan through the Turkish state. In addition to these groups, the Turkish state has occupied the areas of Afrin, Azaz, Bab, Jarabulus, Serêkaniyê and Girê Spî and has embarked on a relentless genocidal war against the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria together with the so-called ‘Free Syrian Army-FSA’, which consists of terrorist elements under its control. Both the Turkish Republic itself and these terrorist groups have been developing continuous genocidal attacks since 2018 and have been using all kinds of war technology unlimitedly to eliminate all living spaces.

On 27 November, at a time when the Turkish Republic was preparing for a comprehensive genocidal attack against the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria, the HTS launched a comprehensive attack on Aleppo and, at the same time, FSA groups attacked the Shehba-Til Rifat line. After the Assad army surrendered Aleppo without resistance, the HTS advanced on the cities of Hama and Homs, while the FSA gangs, terrorist groups authorised by the Turkish Republic, launched brutal attacks on the areas of Shehba, Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafiyah and Manbij. These attacks cannot be considered and evaluated as ordinary and localised attacks. Syria and Rojava are the red line of the Kurds and must be protected and embraced in any case and whatever price is necessary must be paid. In this respect, the process that has started is as vital and important as the ‘Arab Spring’ that started in Tunisia in 2010. HTS's move is very strategic, and although the aim here is to liquidate the Assad administration, the main goal is to liquidate the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria-Rojava and to eliminate Kurdish gains, and this is definitely planned and carried out by the fascist AKP-MHP government of the Turkish Republic.

Undoubtedly, both Iran, Russia and their partners and the USA, the EU and their partners will handle this process for their own interests and determine their positions, and terrorist groups will use this process to complete their goals left unfinished by ISIS. Just as the ISIS war and process turned into a great revolution in favour of the Rojava-based peoples, now the same situation can lead to a much greater revolution and gain. But the situation is serious, and the danger is great. If the right attitude and effective resistance is not demonstrated, the revolutionary values gained at great cost may be lost in the face of the fascist attacks of the Turkish Republic.

The protection and safeguarding of these values is undoubtedly the fundamental and primary duty of the Autonomous Administration of Rojava-North and East Syria. But this is the most urgent task of all Kurdistan and especially of our people living in Europe. Our people in every part, especially the youth of Kurdistan, must join the Rojava resistance and play their role.

The game being played is not a simple and ordinary one. On 9 October 1998, Leader Abdullah Öcalan was taken out of Syria by a conspiracy and was wanted to be liquidated as a movement and a people. Leader Abdullah Öcalan and the Kurdish people responded to this conspiracy by creating the spring of the peoples with the great and historic Rojava Revolution. Now, while the revolution and its values, the Democratic Self-Government System, created on the basis of Leader Abdullah Öcalan's paradigm, are intended to be liquidated by the conspirators, the unfinished and failed Kurdish genocide is wanted to be completed. Against this, every Kurdish individual and their friends must actively participate in the process with the spirit of mobilisation against this genocide process.

To defend Rojava is to defend Kurdistan!

To defend Rojava is to defend women's freedom!

To defend Rojava is to defend humanity!

KNK calls on everyone to defend Rojava

The Kurdistan National Congress called on everyone to defend Rojava.


ANF
BRUSSELS
Monday, 2 December 2024, 09:55

The Kurdistan National Congress (KNK) issued a statement about the attack and threat of massacre by the Salafist and jihadist gangs called Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) supported by the Turkish state against Syria and Rojava, and called on everyone to defend Rojava.

The KNK statement drew attention to the fact that the regions of Aleppo, except for the Kurdish neighborhoods, fell into the hands of the jihadist Salafist gangs without meeting any resistance by the Syrian regime.

The KNK statement said: "Five days ago, under the coordination of the Turkish state, HTS (Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, a Salafist organization that is the remnants of Al-Qaeda and ISIS) and the SNA (Syrian National Army), which is mostly composed of Salafist forces and is also affiliated with Turkey, attacked the Syrian regime forces. Interestingly, the Syrian army did not resist and withdrew. On the sixth day, they entered the city of Aleppo and Aleppo was captured without a fight, except for the Kurdish neighborhoods. They attacked from other fronts and went to the city of Hema. Since early this morning, Turkish state forces (Syrian National Army) have been attacking the Kurdish regions and the Autonomous Administration of Northern and Eastern Syria. The war is currently ongoing on all fronts, and the biggest attack is in the Shehba region and the town of Tall Rifaat, where most of the refugees from Afrin are located. The Democratic Autonomous Administration of Northern and Eastern Syria includes all ethnic and religious groups, and is led by women."

Erdoğan threatened Rojava

The KNK statement drew attention to the connection between the HTS and SNA groups and the Turkish state. The relationship between the current attacks and Turkish President Erdoğan’s threat against Rojava was also underlined. "HTS is an international jihadist force and includes tens of thousands of Uyghur, Chechen, Turkmen jihadists, among others. HTS is located on the Turkish border and gets its logistics from Turkey. The SNA is completely dependent on Turkey and acts in accordance with the orders and instructions of the Turkish state. The attacks of these forces are planned with the knowledge and coordination of Turkey. The attacks on the Kurdish regions and the regions run by the Autonomous Administration of Northern and Eastern Syria clearly demonstrate this situation. In fact, Turkish President Erdoğan has been openly saying for some time that he will not allow the Autonomous Administration to exist and that we will completely occupy the north of Syria."

Rojava is facing a massacre

The KNK statement added: "It is clear that the Turkish state is behind these attacks. The neo-Ottoman mentality is behind these attacks and the Turkish state wants to occupy these regions. This is not the first time that the Turkish state has attacked regions run by the Autonomous Administration of Northern and Eastern Syria. The Turkish state has been involved in all kinds of dirty plans and attacks against the Kurds of Rojava since the beginning of the Syrian revolution (2011). It was Turkish state officials who directed ISIS towards the city of Kobanê ten years ago. This attack is similar to the attack carried out by ISIS on Kobanê in 2014. The Kurds of Rojava are facing another massacre."

Do not leave the Autonomous Administration alone

The KNK continued: "We are drawing the attention of all world powers interested in Syria to these attacks and want everyone to see what is really happening and take a stance accordingly. The victory of HTS and SNA would mean being faced with a situation similar to that of ISIS. This situation must be prevented. We call on all relevant powers and world's public opinion to act to stop the attacks by the Turkish state and its affiliated forces and not to leave the Autonomous Administration of Northern and Eastern Syria alone."

Kurds and people of Kurdistan: Let’s defend Rojava!

The statement ended with a call. "In Rojava in general, and especially in Shehba near Aleppo, the refugees from Afrin and our people in that region are under attack and facing massacre. All Kurds and their friends need to follow this situation carefully and take action. We call on all Kurds to take to the streets, and defend our people in Rojava and the Autonomous Administration, as they did during the Kobanê siege."

TJK-E calls on all those in favour of humanity to defend Rojava

TJK-E pointed out that a global plan is being implemented against the Middle East and Syria and called on all Kurdish people, especially women, and all those in favour of humanity to fight together against the occupying and genocidal Turkish state.


ANF
NEWS DESK
Sunday, 1 December 2024

The Kurdish Women's Movement in Europe (Tevgera Jinên Kurd ên Ewrupa-TJK-E) stated that a global occupation plan has been put into action by the gangs guided by the Turkish state against Syria and North and Eas Syria and called for defence against the threat of genocide that the peoples will face.

The written statement released by the Kurdish Women's Movement in Europe is as follows:

The fascist Turkish state and reactionary fascist gangs aim to deepen the chaos and conflicts in Syria by attacking the Rojava autonomous region. For this purpose, the gangs that Turkey feeds, protects and guides aim to eliminate the gains that the peoples, and especially the Rojava Women's Revolution, have achieved at great cost. Starting on 29 November, they first attacked Aleppo and then advanced towards Hama and other cities. Simultaneously, an invasion attack was launched against Shehba. On the other hand, there are attacks against all of North and East Syria. Unfortunately, the Syrian state failed to put up a will in the face of the attacks, did not adopt a stand for the defence of the people, and abandoned all the places where the gangs headed for. This situation has left all Syrian peoples face to face with the danger of massacre.

A global plan is being implemented against the Middle East and Syria. The Turkish state is taking advantage of this situation to realise its genocidal, colonialist, racist and expansionist aims. On this basis, it wants to eliminate the gains of the Kurdish people, peoples and women and to realise the Kurdish genocide. The Turkish state is behind the attacks launched by the gangs. It is clear that this will bring about further massacres and genocide to Syria and the Middle East.

As TJK-E, we call on all our people, especially women, our friends and all those in favour of humanity to defend Rojava.”

Heyva Sor calls for emergency aid for Rojava

The Kurdish relief organization Heyva Sor a Kurd in Rojava continues its efforts to meet the needs of the displaced people, move them to safe places and provide health services.


ANF
NEWS DESK
Tuesday, 3 December 2024

The Kurdish Red Crescent Heyva Sor a Kurdistan issued an urgent appeal calling for humanitarian aid for the victims of the war of aggression by Turkish and jihadist groups.

The Heyva Sor a Kurdistan statement on Tuesday includes the following:

"On November 27, 2024, jihadist groups supported by Turkey attacked Aleppo, one of the largest cities in Syria. Fighters from the Turkish-led SNA are terrorizing the local population, arbitrarily arresting people and using targeted violence.

In 2018, Turkey and jihadist groups invaded the Kurdish city of Afrin and displaced hundreds of thousands of Kurds to the Shehba region.

The Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES) decided to evacuate the surrounded population and bring them to safe areas. This decision paved the way for a large wave of migration, but was intended to prevent a massacre of tens of thousands of people.

Undoubtedly, this process will bring much suffering, and tens of thousands of children, women and elderly people will be exposed to the harsh winter temperatures.

The Kurdish relief organization Heyva Sor a Kurd in Rojava continues its efforts to meet the needs of the displaced people, move them to safe places and provide health services.

For these reasons, we urge you to donate to the people of Rojava through Heyva Sor a Kurdistanê."

Details for donations are as follows

"Heyva Sor a Kurdistanê e.V.

Kreissparkasse Köln

IBAN: DE49 3705 0299 0004 0104 81

BIC/SWIFT: COKSDE33XXX

Reference: Rojava

PayPal: heyvasorakurdistan@gmail.com

(Note: Due to an order by the ADD Rheinland-Pfalz, we are currently unable to accept donations from the federal state of Rheinland-Pfalz.)"

Patriotic Students' Union and Revolutionary Youth Movement call for mobilisation against attacks

The Patriotic Students’ Union and the Revolutionary Youth Movement and the Euphrates Canton Culture and Art Centre called for mobilisation, saying: “To protect the land and the country is to protect one's honour.”


ANF
NEWS DESK
Tuesday, 3 December 2024

The Patriotic Students Union of Euphrates Canton and Revolutionary Youth Movement made statements calling for action against the increasingly ongoing attacks of the occupying Turkish state and its gangs against North and East Syria.

Patriotic Students' Union: We will not allow the gangs to make our heavenly lands their home

The statement made by the Patriotic Students' Union at Kobanê University was read by union member Rojhat Daban, who said the following: “We strongly condemn the attacks on our lands and salute the historic resistance of our people in Aleppo and Shehba. This attack is the continuation of the occupying Turkish state’s plan that failed with DAESH. The aim of these attacks is the occupation of the areas they have determined as ‘Misak-ı Milli’. With these attacks, the occupying Turkish state wants to first divide Syria and then occupy it. One of the aims of these attacks is to destroy the Syrian people's hope for a free and dignified life.

In order to end these genocidal attacks, Arab, Kurdish, Syriac, Assyrian and Turkmen students all over Syria must join hands and strengthen their unity. To protect the land and the country is to protect one's honour. On this basis, we will not allow the invading gangs to make our heavenly lands their home, no matter the cost. We will defeat the occupation and genocide attempt in the spirit of the Rojava Revolution.

In consideration of the current situation, as the Patriotic Students’ Union, we call on the youth and our people to mobilise. All Syrian students must rise up in the spirit of mobilisation and patriotism and take their place in the revolutionary people's war. Let's protect our country, our honour and the peoples' revolution together.”

Revolutionary Youth Movement: We are ready to mobilise and avenge our martyrs

The statement of the Revolutionary Youth Movement, read by Hîla Elî, said the following: “Our people in Aleppo and Shehba are being destroyed inhumanely. We salute the resistance of the Self-Defence forces. It is seen that our war will not be easy. On this basis, we should take our weapons and stand up like the young people of Kobanê did. We will manifest our attitude wherever an attack takes place and we will defeat the Turkish state. The Freedom Movement has been resisting for 50 years without interruption. We, as youth from Dêrik to Shehba, are ready to mobilise and avenge our martyrs. We call on all young people to stand up and join the HPC.”

KCK: Our peoples must organize on the basis of self-defense and prevent any occupation and massacres

Pointing to efforts to deepen the chaos and conflicts in Syria, KCK said, “A global plan is being executed against the Middle East and Syria. Turkey is taking advantage of this situation to realize its genocidal, colonialist, racist, expansionist aims."


ANF
BEHDINAN
Sunday, 1 December 2024,


The Co-Presidency of the KCK (Kurdistan Communities Union) Executive Council released a statement regarding the developments in Syria. The statement, entitled 'It is Necessary to be Organized, to Prepare Self-Defense and Prevent Occupation!', refers to the backers and intentions behind the new offensive of the gangs and calls on the peoples of Syria to organize self-defense in accordance with the strategy of the revolutionary people's war.

The KCK statement on Sunday includes the following:

“Once again, efforts are being made to deepen the chaos and conflicts in Syria through the deployment of reactionary fascist gangs. For this purpose, the gangs that are fed by Turkey are directed firstly against Aleppo and are now headed towards Hama and other cities. Simultaneously, an invasion attack was launched against Shehba. At the same time, there are attacks on all of Northern and Eastern Syria. Unfortunately, the Syrian state lacked the will to face the attacks, did not take a stance to defend the people, and abandoned all the places where the gangs were headed. As a result, all the peoples of Syria are facing the threat of a massacre.

A global plan is being executed against the Middle East and Syria. The Turkish state is taking advantage of this situation to realize its genocidal, colonialist, racist, and expansionist aims. It wants to eliminate the gains of the peoples, particularly the Kurdish people, and realize the Kurdish genocide. Behind the attacks launched by these gangs stands the Turkish state and the aforementioned aims of the Turkish state. It is very clear that this offensive will be the cause of more massacres and genocide in Syria and the Middle East. They aim to pit the peoples against each other and deepen the existing problems. Giving a role to the Turkish state both in Syria and the Middle East will lead to extremely dangerous consequences.

As a movement, we have always been in favor of all peoples living together, equally and freely, in Syria, and we have strived for this to be realized. The creation of a democratic Syria is the only correct solution for the benefit of all Syrian peoples. We believe that the construction of a democratic Syria is a project that would also contribute to the democratization of the Middle East and the solution of its problems. The Turkish state, on the other hand, intervenes in the situation in Syria with racist, genocidal, and expansionist ambitions and thereby blocks the democratization of Syria and the development of democratization in the Middle East. It approaches Syria with an anti-Kurdish mentality and has set as its main goal the elimination of the democratic autonomous administration. This has led to the deepening of the insoluble situation in Syria. The aim of the Turkish state is to eliminate the democratic autonomous administration, to prevent the development of a democratic solution in Syria, and to take Syria under its domination. The attacks launched again by the gangs recently also serve this purpose. The Turkish state is preparing to take action against Rojava with the attack by gangs and to eliminate the revolution by occupying Rojava.

An extraordinary process is taking place both in Rojava and in all of Syria. The Turkish state is taking advantage of the situation and trying to implement its policies of occupation and genocide. For this purpose, it is trying to carry out massacres and eliminate the autonomous administration by invading Northern and Eastern Syria by both attacking the gangs and taking action itself. Against this, our peoples must organize everywhere on the basis of self-defense, defend themselves, and prevent any occupation and massacres. The dangers that arise can only be overcome by developing the self-defense of the people. Our people must be vigilant; they must defend themselves without waiting for help from elsewhere. Our people must act together and integrate with the defense forces wherever they are. The process has made it vital to develop the Revolutionary People’s War. Based on this, our peoples must organize and act on the basis of the strategy of revolutionary people’s war by developing their self-defense.”

Syrian Democratic Council: The Syrian crisis can only be resolved through a just political solution

The Syrian Democratic Council said that it is ready for dialogue with all parties in order to end the war in Syria.


ANF
NEWS DESK
Tuesday, 3 December 2024


The Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) issued a statement about the recent events in northwestern Syria.

The statement "strongly condemns the resurgence of violence in Syria. It expresses deep concern over the overall developments in the country, including the takeover of Aleppo city and the countryside of Hama by Turkish-backed armed groups without resistance."

The SDC condemns "the threats faced by Syrian civilians across the country. Also, it calls on the international community to take immediate and effective action to halt the escalating violence in northwestern Syria. It urges the exertion of maximum pressure on all conflicting parties to cease fire. The goal is to engage in comprehensive new peace talks that represent the Syrian people and their aspirations. These talks should include the participation of all relevant Syrian parties without exclusion."

The SDC said it "holds the Syrian regime accountable for the ongoing crisis in the country, blaming it for rejecting all initiatives aimed at preventing a humanitarian disaster in Syria. Furthermore, it directly holds the Turkish occupation accountable for the recent escalation of violence in northwestern Syria.

Additionally, it expresses deep concern over the dire humanitarian situation faced by the displaced people from al-Shahbaa region. Moreover, it calls upon the United Nations and the UN Security Council to intervene immediately. It urges the international community to take swift action to protect all Syrian civilians from the imminent threat posed by Turkish-backed groups, which have previously committed war crimes, genocide, and forced displacement."

The SDC "warns of the dangers of the Islamic State (ISIS) exploiting the recent escalation in northwestern Syria. In addition, it calls on the US-led Global Coalition to strengthen its support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in their fight against ISIS. Consequently, it expresses serious concerns regarding the anxieties of Iraqi people, and emphasizes the need for cooperation between Iraqi forces and the SDF, in coordination with the Global Coalition, to enhance the fight against terrorism.

On the other hand, the SDC affirms the importance of the Russian Federation's role in supporting a comprehensive political solution. At the same time, it reiterates its openness to engage in dialogue with Turkey, rejecting all pretexts used to justify further occupation of Syrian territory."

The SDC listed some issues:

"1-The continuation of conflicts among Syrian parties only serves the enemies of the Syrian people and exacerbates the suffering of civilians. Therefore, the SDC calls for prioritizing engaging in the national dialogue over the use of force.

2- The SDC calls for an end to all violations targeting specific components of Syrian society. Also, it reaffirms that Kurds and other national and religious minorities are an integral part of Syria's history and people.

3- The Syrian crisis can only be resolved through a just political solution that guarantees the rights of all Syrians and achieves justice, freedom, and equality. This solution should be free from any external interference or attempts to impose a new reality by force."

In conclusion, said the statement, "Syrian national dialogue is the sole pathway to resolving the Syrian crisis experienced by the Syrian people as a whole. The SDC is open to dialogue with all Syrians to strengthen Syria's unity, security, and sovereignty. It also appeals to all patriotic Syrians in all regions of Syria to resist incitement, revenge, and malicious propaganda. It also emphasizes the importance of adhering to the political solution that is in line with UN Resolution 2254, which ensures a democratic transition. This transition should strengthen Syria's unity and sovereignty, within the framework of a decentralized democratic political regime that meets the aspirations of all Syrians."

TEV-DEM warns against an imminent genocide in North-East Syria

In a statement on the attacks of the Turkish state and its gangs on North-East Syria, TEV-DEM warned against the threat of genocide and called for the protection of migrants in the midst of attacks.


ANF
NEWS DESK
Tuesday, 3 December 2024

The Democratic Society Movement (TEV-DEM) made a statement regarding the attacks of the Turkish state and affiliated gangs against North-East Syria and Rojava. Drawing attention to the war and crimes against humanity committed by the occupying Turkish state, TEV-DEM emphasised that an attemt is being made to subject the peoples of the region to genocide.

Underlining that the gangs‘ attacks and massacres against prisoners are genocide, TEV-DEM said: „These developments did not happen spontaneously; the Turkish fascist regime is behind these attacks. The Turkish state, as part of the projects of the hegemonic powers in the Middle East, supports terrorist organisations to implement the Misak-ı Milli.“ (The so-called ‘National Pact’ refers to a political declaration made by the leaders of the Ottoman Empire in 1920 during the First World War. The oath defined the territorial borders – including Kurdish settlement areas in present-day Iraq and Syria – and the basic principles for Turkey’s future policy. Today, Turkish nationalists often refer to the ‘National Pact’ to formulate their aspirations for Turkey’s territorial expansion.)

TEV-DEM pointed out that the current attacks were the same as the genocidal attacks against Afrin and targeted the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria.

"The Turkish fascist state has once again revealed the brutality of terror by inflicting a new migration tragedy on our people,“ the statement said, noting that Afrin IDPs living in Shehba were targeted in the latest wave of aggression.

Referring to the Neo-Ottomanist policies of the Turkish state, the statement said that the Turkish state is a threat to the peace and tranquility of the peoples of the region.

Noting that the YPG, YPJ and SDF fighters won a great victory against ISIS at the cost of thousands of martyrs, the statement pointed out that the Turkish state is trying to revive terrorism in front of the eyes of the whole world and uses it against the defenders of humanity. TEV-DEM saluted the resistance of the peoples and said, "These people resist against all conditions. We call on human rights organisations to monitor the situation of prisoners in the hands of gangs, and to ensure the freedom of women prisoners in particular."

"In the spirit of Arins, Berivans and thousands of martyrs, let us organise and strengthen our organisation in the midst of the chaos in the Middle East, and let us frustrate the calculations on the basis of the brotherhood of peoples," the statement concluded.

TEV-ÇAND joins mobilisation in North-East Syria: Today is the day of honour and struggle

“Today is the day to defend our values, and protect our people, our country and our land,” said TEV-ÇAND, embracing the Autonomous Administration's call for mobilisation.


ANF
QAMISHLO
Tuesday, 3 December 2024, 

The Mesopotamia Democratic Culture and Art Movement (TEV-ÇAND) made statements in Qamishlo and Kobanê against the Turkish state's attacks on North-East Syria and Aleppo and its surroundings.


The press briefing in Kobanê

Hîlala Zêrîn Women's Cultural Movement, Union of Intellectuals, Union of Artists, North-East Syrian Literature Divan, Cultural Council, Syriac Cultural Association and Armenian Community Culture and Art Committee also participated in the press statement.

The statement was made at the 12 March Martyrs Stadium in Qamishlo to the accompaniment of Kurdish, Arab, Syriac and Armenian components. The statement was read in Kurdish by Keder Hisên, a member of the Cizir Canton TEV-ÇAND, and in Arabic by Yexnîk Kerbo, Vice President of the Armenian Community Assembly.

“The fascist Turkish state is the enemy of the Kurdish people and tries to maintain its existence through the extermination of the Kurdish people. It uses all kinds of dirty and immoral methods to destroy the Kurdish people, subjecting our people to inhumane attacks in violation of international law. In the face of these attacks, all the world powers remain silent and even support Turkey,” said the statement, which further included the following:

“Currently, the fascist Turkish state has launched invasion and genocide attacks against Shehba and Aleppo by applying the same policies. The aim of this aggression is to occupy not only Shehba and Aleppo, but all Syrian lands. It targets Northern and Eastern Syria in the first place. The gangs he has gathered around him are all murderers and looters; they are slaves of the Turkish state. They are enemies of nature, women and society. They are rapists and bloodsuckers, destroying and plundering everywhere they enter. These gangs and the Turkish state are enemies of humanity.

Our people resist these attacks, our defence forces fight with a strong will and defend our people. Our military forces and our people resist together in the spirit of a revolutionary people's war. We are defending our country, our land, our society; we will never give up our freedom and self-government.

We, as artists, intellectuals and members of cultural, artistic and literary work, will resist these attacks and occupations until the end. We will be the vanguard of the revolutionary people's war. As we have served our society with our pen and art, we will resist today with all our strength and methods. It is our responsibility to defend our land, country, culture and language.

We wholeheartedly stand with our fighters on the battle fronts and salute the resistance of our people in Shehba and Aleppo. We are ready to do whatever is necessary. We call on our people to join the defence of the country without hesitation. There are opportunities for us to be recognised in the world as a free country; there are opportunities to consolidate our freedom and self-government.

As a democratic nation, Kurds, Arabs, Syriacs, Assyrians, Armenians, Circassians and all communities in the region, together we will conclude this resistance with victory. Once again, we call on all the peoples of the world to stand shoulder to shoulder. We especially appeal to the artists and intellectuals of the world; do not remain silent. The victory of our people is the victory of a free and democratic humanity. The revolution in North and East Syria represents social and human values; to stand for this revolution is to stand for oneself and society.

The Autonomous Administration has declared mobilisation and we are joining it with all our strength. We say: We resist together with our own instruments, our own words, our own voice and colour, our pen and our ideas, our labour and our activity. Today is the day of honour and dignity, the day of resistance and struggle, the day to defend our own values and the day to protect our people, our country and our land.”

Hozat: Turkey is the command and control center of the war in Syria

Bese Hozat of the KCK stated that Turkey has trained, equipped and commanded the gangs for years, waging a war of genocide, a war of occupation and annexation against the Kurdish people and the Syrian peoples.


ANF
BEHDINAN
Tuesday, 3 December 2024, 

Besê Hozat, Co-President of the KCK (Kurdistan Communities Union) Executive Council, spoke to Medya Haber TV about the currently developing events in the context of the Third World War, which finds its current center in Syria in the Middle East. Hozat talked about several other topics, exposing the genocidal policies pursued by the fascist Turkish government on the one hand and talking about the need for resistance and self-governance of the peoples on the other. Below is the first part of the comprehensive interview with Hozat.

Currently, the region faces constant change, and new realities are developing on a daily basis. The Middle East is the center of the Third World War, and after Palestine and Lebanon, the war has now gained new intensity in Syria. The HTS and other gangs of the oppressive Turkish state have attacked Aleppo. These are attacks that continue to unfold as we speak. Many questions arise: What is the current general situation in Syria? Who are the forces behind this new attack? What is the US and Russian approach to these developments? The list of questions could certainly go on and on, but I would like to ask one central one: What is the necessary attitude of the Kurdish people, as well as that of the other peoples of the region and their self-defense forces that follow the understanding of the democratic nation and unite accordingly, in view of the situation in Syria?

A big war is going on, and truly, Syria has become the center of the Third World War in the Middle East. It started with the occupation of Aleppo, and now it has spread. The gangs are also about to take over Hama and claimed that they will advance towards Homs and Damascus. On the other hand, gangs are being mobilized by Turkey, not only there, but also in North-East Syria. The Turkish state is currently carrying out a plan based on attacking North and East Syria. One needs to be aware of the reality that Turkey has been the main actor in this war in Syria since 2011. It played a very decisive role in the outbreak of the civil war. It took the lead in organizing many gangs, tens of thousands of mercenaries. Turkey has become the central headquarters of the gangs. It trains, equips, and provides all kinds of logistics and ammunition and commands the gangs. It has been doing this for years. It also developed an alliance with ISIS and made it attack Rojava and particularly Kobane. That war was coordinated by Turkish generals together with ISIS.

At the moment, the Turkish state and the Turkish army are also coordinating this war. Together with al-Nusra and the so-called FSA, the command and control center of this war in Syria is the Turkish state itself, the Turkish army itself. Turkish generals are coordinating this war. This needs to be stated very clearly. It is the Turkish generals who are coordinating and conducting the battle for Aleppo and the war in other regions. For four or five years they have already been waging a great war of annihilation in the Medya Defense Zones (guerrilla-held areas in northern Iraq) together. They came and crashed in this war. They got locked in the places they entered. Developments in the region have also accelerated. Now, in order to intervene more effectively in Syria, they have turned their attention to Syria. It should not be said that al-Nusra is fighting, or that the gangs affiliated with Turkey are fighting; it is the Turkish army that is fighting in Syria. The gangs themselves are paramilitary forces affiliated with the Turkish army. It is a branch of the Turkish state, a militia branch. And it has created great destruction in Syria and is currently continuing this destruction. Because Turkey was left out of the balance, left out of the equation in the reorganization of the regional order, it is waging a war in Syria with all its might in order to put itself in this equation, to take a role again. It is waging a war of genocide, a war of occupation and annexation against the Kurdish people and the Syrian peoples. This is how the neo-Ottoman policies are currently being put into practice in all their nakedness and visibility. Turkey has been training these gangs for years. Idlib and the other occupied areas were under the control of the Turkish state. It has trained these gangs in Idlib; it has trained them in Turkey; it has turned many camps into recruitment centers for gangs. It trained and equipped them, and now it has led them to war against the peoples, against the Syrian peoples. It is currently waging a great war of genocide and will develop it further.

On the other hand, there is the war that started on October 7th. It was particularly a war between Israel and Hamas, and Hamas has suffered a serious blow. Israel left no stone unturned in Gaza and then turned its attention to Lebanon, where an intense war developed between Israel and Hezbollah. Finally, there was a ceasefire after Hezbollah obviously suffered serious blows, but Israel could not defeat or break it as a whole. And Israel itself also suffered serious difficulties and wear and tear. They had to make a ceasefire. There, too, an agreement was made on a basis that was based on Israel’s interests. Hezbollah was expelled from the south of Lebanon. On the basis of what Israel wants, a new status quo and a new system are being built there; a design is being given to this area. It is understood that the Lebanese government and administration will be more aligned with Israel. Lebanon will be redesigned in accordance with Israel, in accordance with its interests.

It is, of course, no coincidence that right after this ceasefire, such an attack in Syria was launched in Aleppo by gangs affiliated with the Turkish state and gradually spread. There were various pieces of information and indications about it before. During the last period, both the Turkish media and the ruling media were discussing this. Just before the attack started, the ruling media had targeted al-Nusra and HTS. It was broadly covering, criticizing, and targeting the fact that al-Nusra was trained, equipped, and prepared by Israel, Britain, and the US in Idlib. Now it is understood that this was done consciously. They wanted to obfuscate the relationship between the Turkish state and al-Nusra, the plan between al-Nusra and the Turkish state, in order not to decipher it, in order to cover it up. They developed this agenda in a very conscious way. But this, of course, does not eliminate the truth. Yes, the US, Britain, and Israel are working seriously on al-Nusra. Not only on al-Nusra but also on other gangs, these powers are trying to use these gangs for their own interests. On that basis, these powers are also carrying out a plan. They want to use these gangs against Syria. They want to use them against the Syrian people. In that sense, Israel also made statements. After Lebanon, it targeted Iran. They said that they will hit Iranian forces everywhere, that Syria is their target. They made various calls to Syria and imposed various conditions and threatened Syria if it did not comply. Now all this has coincided with the same period. The Turkish state saying that they are “closing the lock,” shows that their real target now is North-East Syria. Israel’s targeting Syria after the ceasefire, the statements it made, these kinds of developments immediately afterwards, this war that is developing is, of course, not a coincidence.

The Turkish state has not given up its ambition to completely occupy and annex North and East Syria. It wants to realize its plans of Misak-i Milli (The so-called ‘National Pact’ refers to a political declaration made by the leaders of the Ottoman Empire in 1920 during the First World War. The oath defined the territorial borders – including Kurdish settlement areas in present-day Iraq and Syria – and the basic principles for Turkey’s future policy. Today, Turkish nationalists often refer to the ‘National Pact’ to formulate their aspirations for Turkey’s territorial expansion), including Aleppo through the genocide of the peoples, particularly the Kurds. It states this plan openly and does not even care to do this in secret. It has not given up on this in any way and is always aiming to realize this plan whenever it finds the slightest opportunity. Now the conjuncture has become favorable for them. It is an interim period during the US elections. Israel’s war against Hezbollah, the ceasefire, Israel’s plans for Syria-Iran and the region, and the plan that the US, Britain, and the international hegemonic powers are carrying out together with Israel. All these are also being evaluated by the Turkish state. How can they utilize this conjuncture according to their own interests? How can they seize the opportunities in time? They are calculating and planning this. There were meetings during this process. Hakan Fidan and Erdoğan had intense diplomatic traffic with the US, Russia, Britain, and the regional powers. These are part of a long-term effort. When all this is put together, one sees that America, Britain, and Israel already had a plan for Syria. Either the Syrian state as a whole would join their axis, it would compromise, or it would face a violent intervention. It is possible to understand this from their statements and calls towards the regime. This was clear. How could they develop this? Israel has been hitting Hezbollah targets in Syria for a long time, hitting the regime forces intensively. It has intensified this in recent months. Hezbollah was seriously hit and weakened in Syria. It transferred the remaining power to Lebanon, which has weakened the regime a lot. This is not a coincidence. In Ukraine, NATO weapons were used against Russia. Missiles were used. New advanced techniques were used against Russia. Russia responded to this. They drew Russia’s attention to Ukraine as a whole. They made Russia deal more with Ukraine. Therefore, they aimed to weaken Russia’s position in Syria. They have already weakened Iran, so the two most crucial supporters of the regime have been weakened in Syria. The regime became vulnerable. In other words, it has lost its bases to a great extent.

On the other hand, Turkey has been preparing for years, and in recent years, it has intensified these preparations. There are two plausible scenarios: Either the US, Israel, and the UK have put their intervention against Syria into action in this way, in agreement with Turkey and by including Turkey in it as a leading figure. Or they carried out a plan and imposed various conditions on Turkey. Turkey did not see these conditions in its favor. It acted quickly to disrupt the game, to re-establish a game in its favor, to create a new equation. And it has been training and equipping these gangs for years and made such a move together with these gangs. It tried to turn the game plans in his favor. This will become clearer in a few days, in the near future. Did the US, Britain, and Israel come up with a joint plan together with Turkey by including Turkey in their plans? And are they currently carrying out this intervention in Syria, this intervention against the Syrian people, under the leadership of Turkey? Or did they impose a plan on Turkey? Turkey did not accept some of the conditions; it gave birth prematurely. Turkey made a move and tried to oblige all these forces to its plan. Did it aim to cooperate in that way? This will become clearer in the near future, but the reality at the moment is that the Turkish state is leading the current war. The international powers and the coalition are currently silent on this. They are in a monitoring position. How and at what level is it involved in this? At what level is it a supporter? This will become visible and clear in the future. But what is clear right now is Turkey’s role, its leadership in this war. Right now, the coalition and Israel are still silent at the moment. The regime has experienced a great disintegration and collapse. It is almost like it is in a state of shock. So is the situation in Russia. Currently, Russia is not doing anything very serious either. I mean, it is not fighting back. It has already suffered a serious weakening in the current situation, also due to the situation in Ukraine. Iran has already suffered serious blows with the post-Lebanon war attacks.

Syria has also weakened now. And at the moment, there is no such thing as a regime or a Syrian state. At the moment, the war has spread throughout Syria. One needs to be aware of this and of the fact that Turkey is leading this war. It is very likely that they will spread this war to all of North and East Syria. In this respect, our people, the peoples everywhere, must be in total resistance. Mobilization must be declared in North and East Syria. Especially in North and East Syria, but generally throughout Syria, the people must resist against this. And this must be based on the strategy of the revolutionary people’s war. They must stand with the forces of the SDF. They must fight and resist together with the forces of YPG and YPJ. Everyone who is capable of holding a weapon in their hands, men and women, young and old, must take their place in this resistance. They must defend their existence, their freedom, their homeland, and their land. There should be no abandonment of land. There should not be any migration. Where will these people go? There is war everywhere. There is destruction everywhere. The right attitude, the right approach, is to develop resistance where they live, to defend your homeland, your land, to defend its existence and freedom, to develop the revolutionary people’s war. It is the participation of all our people in this resistance.

There is currently a great genocidal threat to our people and the peoples of Syria. In Aleppo, Sheikh Maqsoud, Ashrafiya, and other neighborhoods, our people’s experience of revolutionary people’s war is very strong. They put up a truly legendary resistance against the gangs. Its population has already doubled two to three times. All of them must stand with the armed forces, take part in the resistance fronts, and participate in this resistance. They must defend their neighborhoods, defend their places. All cantons, all cantons of North and East Syria. On this basis, I call on the people of North and East Syria to join the revolutionary people’s war. I call on them to ensure their existence and freedom, to grow and strengthen the resistance against the fascist, genocidal Turkish state, against the occupying, annexing Turkish state, against its gangs. These attacks, the war they are waging in Syria, the trustee policies, the attacks, and all the arrests have made it very clear how they are carrying out a comprehensive genocidal plan, that all these discourses are a game, a special war game. That is why everywhere; in northern Kurdistan, in Turkey, in southern Kurdistan, in eastern Kurdistan, abroad, everywhere, our people must stand up with a spirit of mobilization. They must increase the resistance. Rojava as a whole, all the peoples of North and East Syria must mobilize for a revolutionary people’s war. This cannot be left only on the shoulders of the military forces. The danger is great, and everyone must evaluate the reality on this basis, and our people must rise up everywhere.