2024: Dec wk3 -- Dec wk2P5 -- Dec wk2P4 -- Dec wk2P3 -- Dec wk2P2 -- Dec wk2

 When one hurts or kills a women
one hurts or kills hummanity and is an antrocitie.
Gino d'Artali
and: My mother (1931-1997) always said to me <Mi figlio, non esistono notizie <vecchie> perche puoi imparare qualcosa da qualsiasi notizia.> Translated: <My son, there is no such thing as so called 'old' news because you can learn something from any news.>
Gianna d'Artali.

AANES reveals identities of ISIS fighters
Medyanews - December 16, 2024
<<AANES reveals identities of ISIS fighters deployed by Turkey in SNA
The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria has released a document identifying 415 ISIS fighters integrated into the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army, raising concerns for regional security and international counter-terrorism efforts. As Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) attacks on the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) persist, the AANES has released a document with names and photographs of 415 ISIS fighters operating within the ranks of the SNA. The document was retrieved from a memory card found on the body of an SNA fighter identified as an ISIS member, who was killed during the attempted infiltration of the city of Manbij (Minbîc) on 8 December. According to the AANES, the same memory card contained another document outlining instructions for ISIS fighters within the SNA to advance on Kobani (Kobane) after capturing Manbij and the strategic Qara Quzak (Qere Qozaq) Bridge over the Euphrates. The AANES has also published a list of names and photographs of ISIS fighters enlisted in the ranks of the SNA, and called for action by the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS. Formed in 2014 to ensure the lasting defeat of ISIS, the Coalition recently reaffirmed its commitment to stabilisation efforts in Iraq and Syria. The release of these documents follows a recent broadcast in which SNA fighters were shown on live Turkish television wearing ISIS arm patches during a news programme covering SNA operations near Manbij.
Related Story:
Turkey's collaboration with ISIS exposed on live Turkish TV
The Syrian National Army was formed in 2017 after its predecessor, the Free Syrian Army, made up of defectors from Assad’s regime and rebel factions, was weakened by infighting between rival jihadist groups. The SNA, including many fighters from the FSA, was formed and is funded and trained by Turkey, but is still not a cohesive fighting force. Henri Barkey, Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University, PA, defines the SNA as "a wholly Turkish-owned entity". Meanwhile, clashes between SNA mercenaries and local defenders continue in North and East Syria. Intense fighting near the Tishreen Dam and Qara Quzak Bridge, southeast of Manbij, has resulted in the deaths of at least 210 SNA fighters, while eight members of the People's Protection Units (YPG) and Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) have also been killed. With efforts to broker a ceasefire between Turkey and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) reportedly collapsing, renewed battles between the SDF and SNA appear imminent.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/aanes-reveals-identities-of-isis-fighters-deployed-by-turkey-in-sna/

Medyanews - December 16, 2024
<<World press warns of Syrian escalation as Turkey continues offensive against Kurds
International media outlets have been highly critical of Turkey's military operations in Syria, describing its offensive on Kurdish regions as destabilising and dangerous for the broader fight against ISIS. Outlets like the New York Post, Fox News and the Jerusalem Post highlight concerns over Ankara's ambitions to reshape the region and exploit the power vacuum left by Assad's collapse. Analysts stress that international inaction risks worsening humanitarian crises and enabling a resurgence of ISIS. Turkey's military actions in Syria, particularly its offensive against Kurdish-controlled areas, have provoked significant reactions in the international press, with analysts and journalists warning of wider consequences for regional stability, the fight against ISIS and humanitarian conditions. The New York Post published a strongly worded editorial criticising Turkey's escalating airstrikes and military incursions into northern Syria. The editorial described Turkey's attacks on Manbij (Minbic) - a town previously controlled by the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) - as a dangerous power grab. It accused Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of exploiting the vacuum left by the fall of the Assad regime to expand Turkey's influence in Syria. The editorial also condemned Ankara for endangering US forces and their Kurdish allies, warning that the chaos threatened hard-won gains against ISIS. The article quoted Washington Institute analyst Devorah Margolin, who described Turkey's actions as an attempt to "rewrite the map in Turkey's favour" while strategically undermining the SDF's position in ongoing negotiations. Fox News, in a report by Benjamin Weinthal, provided an in-depth analysis of Turkey's policy, focusing on statements by Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who declared the elimination of the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) as Turkey's 'strategic goal'. This, Fox argued, was a direct challenge to the United States, given the YPG’s central role in the defeat of ISIS alongside US forces. Fox also highlighted an exclusive interview with SDF commander Mazloum Abdi, who detailed the devastating impact of Turkish drone strikes and artillery fire on anti-ISIS operations. Abdi warned that the diversion of resources to defend against Turkish-backed forces could lead to the escape of ISIS detainees from SDF-run prisons, undermining years of counter-terrorism efforts. The analysis included calls from figures such as Senator Lindsey Graham, who urged bipartisan action in the form of sanctions against Turkey if it continued to threaten US partners. The Jerusalem Post, in an analysis by Seth J. Frantzman, offered a strategic analysis of Ankara’s broader ambitions, portraying Turkey's moves as an effort to isolate the Kurds and reshape northern Syria in its favour. He detailed how Turkey is using proxy forces, particularly the Syrian National Army (SNA), to attack Kurdish areas amid the chaos caused by the collapse of the Assad regime. Frantzman warned of serious humanitarian consequences, noting that tens of thousands of Kurds have been displaced in recent weeks. He also raised the alarm about the targeting of key infrastructure such as the Tishreen Dam, the failure of which could cut off electricity to millions in northeast Syria. The article highlighted that Ankara's actions are not just military, but part of a calculated strategy to dominate the region while sidelining Kurdish forces. Alhurra, in a report by Badrkhan Hassan, quoted officials from the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) who expressed fears that Turkish-backed factions were seeking to seize prisons holding thousands of ISIS fighters. YPG spokesman Siyamand Ali warned that such a scenario could lead to a resurgence of ISIS, endangering not only the region but also international security. Ali stressed that Turkey's attacks threaten the hard-won gains against ISIS and urged the international coalition to intervene to prevent further escalation. Middle East analyst Seth Frantzman provided a broader historical context for Turkey's policy, arguing that Ankara sees this as a '100-year opportunity' to remove the Kurds from Syria's border regions. He compared Turkey’s current strategy to previous campaigns of expulsion and ethnic cleansing, and warned of the humanitarian catastrophe that could follow. Frantzman criticised the international community for its inaction, saying that unless Turkey's plans are confronted, further devastation is inevitable. The world media outlets highlight Turkey's actions in Syria as exacerbating the Kurdish plight, destabilising the region, hindering the fight against ISIS and creating a humanitarian crisis, and call for urgent international intervention. Analysts stress that international pressure is urgently needed to prevent further escalation.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/world-press-warns-of-syrian-escalation-as-turkey-continues-offensive-against-kurds/

Medyanews - December 16, 2024
<<Intellectuals and writers call for peace and democracy in Turkey
A statement headed "Peace and Democracy for All" was released by 39 intellectuals and writers in Istanbul on Saturday, calling for urgent steps for dialogue and democratic reform to resolve the Kurdish issue and secure lasting peace. A group of 39 intellectuals and writers released a statement entitled "Peace and Democracy for All" at a press conference held in Istanbul’s Taksim district on Saturday. The statement highlights the urgent need for social peace and democratic reform in Turkey, especially in light of the ongoing Kurdish issue and regional conflicts. The press conference, held at Taksim's Hill Hotel, was chaired by Rıza Türmen, a former judge at the European Court of Human Rights and a former Republican People's Party (CHP) MP. Reading out the statement, Türmen stressed that peace means not only the cessation of armed conflict, but also the need to address its root causes. He criticised the government’s increasing reliance on violence to solve problems, including the appointment of trustees to replace elected mayors, the suppression of peaceful protests and attempts to resolve the Kurdish issue by force. Other speakers, including writers Necmiye Alpay, Murathan Mungan and Ayşegul Devecioglu, echoed calls for peace and democracy. Alpay stressed the need to prioritise human rights and inclusivity in any potential solution, while Mungan stressed the importance of approaching the Kurdish issue from an internationalist perspective, arguing that outdated approaches no longer work and that comprehensive programmes are needed to address the social and economic dimensions of the issue. Devecioglu criticised the contradictory actions of the government, saying: "The government talks about peace while appointing trustees and carrying out [security] operations. It is unacceptable for the advocates of peace and democracy to remain passive. I call on everyone to support this cause."
The declaration emphasised that peace is a social necessity, not just a political agenda. It proposed a framework for resolving the Kurdish question through dialogue, human rights and democratic reforms. "The Kurdish question can only be solved within the framework of democracy and human rights," the statement said, adding that participatory democracy and decentralisation are essential for equality and coexistence. The statement also touched on developments in Syria, highlighting the interconnectedness of regional conflicts. It noted that the Kurdish question could not be resolved within Turkey's borders alone and called for a peaceful regional policy that would benefit all the peoples of the region. The signatories noted that the right to live in peace is a fundamental human right recognised under international law. Referring to historical milestones such as the Nuremberg trials and United Nations resolutions, they highlighted the global consensus that peace is a sacred right for all individuals and communities. The statement cited the 1984 UN General Assembly Declaration affirming the right to live in peace and the 2010 Santiago de Compostela Congress, which reaffirmed the responsibility of states to protect this right and to ensure sustainable and lasting peace. The signatories also addressed wider socio-economic challenges, advocating structural reforms to fight poverty, unemployment and inequality. The declaration called for the building of a country free from violence, corruption and social injustice, stressing that "peace requires the creation of the foundations of a just, free and democratic society".
The intellectuals and writers concluded with an urgent call for a peace process and an end to armed conflict. They argued that sustainable peace depends on social participation and the promotion of a culture of peace. "Peace is not just the absence of war; it is a social value that requires collective effort and support," they said.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/intellectuals-and-writers-call-for-peace-and-democracy-in-turkey/


Zenubya Women's Community
Jinha - Womens News Agency - December 16, 2024 - by NORŞAN ABDI
<<Zenubya Women's Community: We will struggle until we build a democratic Syria
In a press statement on Monday, the Zenubya Women's Community denounced the recent attacks of the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions on North and East Syria, which "pose a threat to the security and stability of Syria".
Raqqa- Since November 27, the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions have intensified their attacks on North and East Syria, killing many civilians, including women and children. The Zenubya Women's Community released a press statement in Raqqa on Monday, condemning the recent attacks on North and East Syria. "The people of North and East Syria were subjected to the most heinous kinds of oppression and brutality during the rule of Assad. They were deprived of their rights for decades. Despite everything, they have achieved many gains thanks to the revolution in Rojava. They have demanded a new, just, democratic Syria, where human rights are respected, the dignity of the citizens is preserved and the leading role of women is recognized." Emphasizing that the people of Syria "have already proven that they are strong", the community said, "They maintain their hope for a better future. We condemn the recent attacks of the Turkish-backed factions on North and East Syria. These attacks pose a threat to not only the security and stability of the region, but of Syria. The Syrian Democratic Forces have fought ISIS and liberated hundreds of cities and villages to build a better future for our children and grandchildren. We will struggle until we build a just and democratic Syria." >>
Source/video: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/zenubya-women-s-community-we-will-struggle-until-we-build-a-democratic-syria-36168?page=1

Al Jazeera - Dec 16 2024 - by Al Jazeera staff
<<Is Israel trying to entrench its occupation of the Golan Heights?
Since the fall of the al-Assad regime, Israel has attacked Syria to deepen the occupation of the Golan Heights.
Among Israel's recent violations of Syrian sovereignty, which include hundreds of air attacks, is its renewed encroachment into the Golan Heights - with tanks and illegal settlements. The Golan Heights spread over 1,800 square km (700 square miles) and have been a flashpoint in the region for decades.
So what are they? What is Israel trying to do there?
Here's what we know:
What are the Golan Heights?
The Golan Heights are in southwestern Syria, about 60km (40 miles) south of Damascus. They are bordered by the Yarmouk River in the south and the Sea of Galilee (Lake Tiberias) in the west. The Golan spreads over basalt rock with fertile land and vital water sources that feed the Jordan River and the Hasbani River, which flows from Lebanon through the Golan.
Who do the Golan Heights belong to?
The Golan Heights are part of Syria, as recognised by the United Nations.
However, Israel occupied the Golan during the 1967 War and currently controls 1,200sq km (463sq miles) of the western part of the region. Almost immediately after Israel occupied part of the Golan, it started to build illegal settlements there. A UN-monitored buffer zone separates Israeli-occupied territory from the remaining part that is still under Syria's control.
Aren't settlements illegal?
Yes, they are illegal.
And yet, Israel has built more than 30 settlements in the area, where more than 25,000 Jewish Israelis live. And it is still signalling that it wants to build more. Late on Sunday, the cabinet approved an $11m plan to enhance services to existing illegal settlements and to fund a plan to bring more settlers there. This is not happening in isolation, as Israel is also attacking sites across Syria, claiming that it is doing so in <self defence>.
Are there any original inhabitants left in the Golan?
Sure, the Druze, about 20,000.
The Druze are an ethnoreligious community who live in Syria, Jordan and Lebanon and tend to keep to themselves. When Israel invaded the Golan in 1967, it violently expelled most of the Druze who lived there.
Has Syria ever tried to take back the Golan Heights?
Yes, but without success.
During the 1973 October War, Syria tried to take back the Golan Heights but couldn't. In 1974, the UN got involved, deploying peacekeeping forces in the area after Syria and Israel signed an armistice. The UN Security Council (UNSC) established the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) the same year to maintain a ceasefire and create a buffer zone. As of April, 1,274 UN personnel are deployed in the Golan Heights.
What's the world's position on the Golan Heights?
No country, other than Donald Trump's United States in 2019, recognises Israel's occupation of Syria's Golan Heights. A 1981 UNSC resolution opposed the occupation and declared Israel's rule over the Golan "null and void and without international legal effect". The 2019 US recognition of Israel's presence in the Golan still stands under President Joe Biden's administration.>>
SOURCE: AL JAZEERA:
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/16/is-israels-trying-to-entrench-its-occupation-of-the-golan-heights


Women of Kobane
Jinha - Womens News Agency - December 16, 2024 - by NORŞAN ABDI
<<Women of Kobane: The Turkish threats will never break our resistance
"The threats and warplanes of the Turkish state will never break our resistance," said women of Kobane, condemning the ongoing attacks by the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions on Kobanê and North and East Syria.
Kobane (Kobani)- The ongoing attacks of the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions on North and East Syria, especially Kobanê, aim to eliminate women's gains and destroy the system based on democracy. Women of Kobane, a city in the Euphrates Canton of North and East Syria are determined to resist and fight against the attacks of the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions, aiming at occupying the region, in order to defend their homeland.
'Together we will defeat them'
Amine Mahmud emphasized that the attacks by the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions on North and East Syria, especially Kobane, were the attacks on the will of the people. "The threats, attacks, warplanes and drones of the Turkish state will never be able to break the resistance in the region. These threats have not intimidated us for years and they will not intimidate us," she told NuJINHA. "Every day, we bid farewell to our martyrs who lost their lives while defending our region. Our message to the Turkish state is that losing our children will not weaken our will; on the contrary, it will make us stronger. If we unite, we can protect the gains of our revolution. If we unite in four parts of Kurdistan, we will achieve success."
'We will defend Kobane with the spirit of revolutionary people'
Suha Mustafa condemned the ongoing attacks on Kobane, North and East Syria and other parts of Syria. "As women of Kobane, we will defend our homeland with the spirit of revolutionary people and our will. We vow our martyrs that we will follow in their footsteps and thwart all dirty plans. In 2014, the people of Kobane defeated ISIS. Today, we will keep defending Kobane."
'We will defend our homeland'
"The Turkish state aims to occupy our homeland but we will allow it," said Zeynep Mahmud. "We will protect our people and defend our homeland. The aim of the Turkish state is to annihilate the Kurdish people. As the women of Kobanê, we will fight the Turkish occupation and defend our homeland. We are ready to defend ourselves against all kinds of attacks." >>
Source/video: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/women-of-kobane-the-turkish-threats-will-never-break-our-resistance-36164?page=1


Dilan Osman
Jinha - Womens News Agency - December 16, 2024 - by PERWIN AMARA
<<'Attacks on Manbij were against women's free will'– INTERVIEW
Dilan Osman, one of the journalists covering the attacks on Manbij by the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions, thinks the attacks on Manbij were against women's free will.
Qamishlo- Manbij, a city in the northeast of Aleppo, has been recently under the attacks of the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions. Turkish-backed factions intensified their attacks on the city on December 6, 2024, killing and kidnapping many civilians. The people of Manbij, who were forced to leave their homes, have not been allowed to leave the city by these factions.
In an interview with NuJINHA, Dîlan Osman, one of the journalists covering the attacks on Manbij, answered our questions on the attacks.
. As a journalist, you covered the attacks on Manbij. What has happened since the start of the attacks of the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions?
The attacks on Manbij were carried out not only by Turkish-backed factions but also by the Turkish state and the MIT (National Intelligence Organization of Turkiye). The attacks on Manbij have never stopped since its liberation; however, the attacks have been intensified since December 6. The national intelligence organization of Türkiye had positioned its secret cells in North and East Syria to prevent the system based on democracy from being built in the region. These cells used psychological attacks and special warfare methods against the people in order to destroy this system. The attacks were carried out mostly in rural and border areas. The recent attacks on Manbij are a continuation of previous attacks.
·The armed groups have occupied the city of Manbij. What are your thoughts about this situation?
The attacks on Manbij were the attacks on women’s free will. We all know what the women of Manbij faced before the liberation of the city. The resistance in villages against the recent attacks on Manbij deeply affected us. YPJ fighters, the fighters of the Manbij Military Council and security forces fought against the armed groups to protect the honor of Manbij's women. Some fighters killed themselves not to be taken captive by the armed groups. The fighters played their role in this battle as if they fought against an army. On December 8, the people of Manbij celebrated the fall of the Assad's regime because they had been oppressed by the Assad's regime for many years. Many people held in Syria's prisoners were from Manbij. Therefore, the fall of the regime made people happy. The armed groups first targeted women when they entered Manbij. Three members of the Zenubya Women's Community were killed in the attacks. These women had fought against ISIS in the region for years. What do you think about the attacks targeting women? The resistance of Manbij's women against the attacks on their homeland boosted our morale. Qemer Sud was one of the members of Zenubiya Women's Community killed in Manbij by the armed groups. The member of the armed groups, who killed Qemer Sud, was her uncle. Qemer El Sod, Ayşe Ebdulqadir and Îman were the members of the community killed by the armed groups in Manbij and they were the symbols of resistance in the city. Despite all the threats, Qemer resisted until the last minute. The attacks on the women were carried out by the patriarchal system that ignores women and usurps women's rights. The resistance of these three women inspired many women; many women fought to defend their homeland. Martyr Mizgin Qamişlo, a member of the security forces, killed herself not to be taken captive by the armed groups.
· What impressed you the most while covering the attacks?
What impressed me the most was the children of Manbij, who raised their hands and chanted "Long live the SDF" although they did not understand what happened. Another thing that impressed me was the resistance in the military hospital. A group of fighters protected wounded people in the hospital until the last minute. A sniper protected the hospital against the armed groups for days. Their resistance will always be remembered. As a journalist, I will never forget their resistance.
· What kind of threat do Syrian women face due to the recent developments in Syria and what should women do?
We do not know what kind of threat Syria will face in the future. But we witness what kind of oppression faced by women in the areas controlled by the Turkish-backed factions. We witness that many decisions have already been made about Syrian women. Now, women living in areas controlled by the Turkish-backed factions are banned from working in legal institutions and have to cover their heads. Such decisions will pose a threat to the culture and identity of the Syrian people. As women journalists, we are responsible to report the threats against women and support the women's struggle for freedom.>>
View interview here: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/attacks-on-manbij-were-against-women-s-free-will-interview-36163?page=1

Al Jazeera - December 15, 2024
<<SDF's Farhad Shami rejects allegations by Al Jazeera as baseless and hostile
Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) spokesperson Farhad Shami has issued a statement denying as completely false certain allegations made by Al Jazeera that the SDF helped Bashar al-Assad's brother Maher flee the country, saying that they appear to be "part of a campaign to incite against our forces" and the people of the region. Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) spokesperson Farhad Shami has issed a disclaimer refuting as entirely false certain claims made by Al Jazeera, saying that they appear to be "part of a campaign to incite against our forces" and the people of North and East Syria. On 13 December, six days after Bashar al-Assad fled Syria for Russia, the news channel published a report based on Iraqi sources, alleging that Maher al-Assad, Bashar's brother and the commander of Syria's 4th Army Division, had left the country with the cooperation and assistance of the SDF via routes leading through northeast Syria. Al Jazeera's sources claimed that following Bashar al-Assad's escape to Moscow on Sunday, his brother Maher left Damascus accompanied by officers of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), and travelled to northeast Syria via secret routes allegedly used for "the smuggling of weapons and drugs, under the control of the 4th Division". According to the same sources, Maher subsequently travelled to Iraq with the assistance of the SDF, whom they called "a partner of the group led by Maher in the drugs trade". However, Al Jazeera provided nothing to substantiate or verify these claims. The Swedish Information Center (SCI) also echoed this report without independently verifying its credibility. In response to the Al Jazeera report, Farhad Shami issued a statement on his X account, refuting the claims: “Al Jazeera Net recently published false information alleging that Maher al-Assad fled to Iraq through the north and eastern [regions] of Syria, facilitated by our forces. This claim is entirely false and appears to be part of a campaign to incite against our forces and the people of north and eastern Syria."
Stating that the Deir ez-Zor (Derazor) border gate was open and the Al-Qaim border crossing between Syria and Iraq "fully operational", He noted that over three thousand Ba'athist officers and soldiers had already fled from the Deir ez-Zor area and the Syrian desert to Iraq, Shami further added: "There was no need for any smuggling routes, contrary to the claims made by Al Jazeera Net." Addressing another allegation from Al Jazeera, which accused the SDF of being involved in drug trafficking, Shami responded: "These allegations stem from a deep animosity by the editor towards our regions and people. In reality, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have been the sole force combating the regime's cells and drug traffickers, conducting numerous operations to pursue these criminals, confiscate their materials, and destroy their networks." Shami concluded by urging all media outlets to exercise "accuracy and objectivity in their reporting, especially during these challenging times for Syria and its people", adding, "It is crucial to avoid disseminating information that lacks logical basis and adheres to journalistic ethics." >>
Source: https://medyanews.net/sdfs-farhad-shami-rejects-allegations-by-al-jazeera-as-baseless-and-hostile/


Abdi
Medyanews - December 15, 2024
<<Abdi stresses need to halt military operations in Syria following Aqaba summit
Following the conclusion of the meeting of foreign ministers from eight Arab countries in Aqaba, Jordan, and the release of the summit's final statement, Mazloum Abdi, General Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), welcomed the outcomes and stressed the need for a cessation of military operations. Senior diplomats from eight Arab nations convened in Aqaba, Jordan, on Saturday, 14 December after the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime at the hands of Syrian rebels. The meeting’s final statement highlighted the need for a peaceful transition of power in Syria, facilitated by the United Nations and the Arab League. Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander-in-Chief Mazloum Abdi welcomed the final statement issued by Arab diplomats in Aqaba and commended the Arab initiative's role in promoting stability in Syria. Abdi posted on his account on X, formerly Twitter, writing: "We welcome the final statement of the Aqaba Summit by the Arab Ministerial Contact Group on Syria and commend the vital role of Arab nations in steering Syria toward safety." On the importance of halting military operations in Syria, he said: "We stress the need to cease military operations across all Syrian territory, as outlined in the final statement. This is a fundamental step to paving the way for meaningful dialogue that can lead to the establishment of a new Syria." He concluded: "The stability of Syria will begin with the participation of all parties and the preservation of its territorial integrity, paving the way for a sustainable peace." In the final statement, the foreign ministers of the eight Arab countries expressed their support for a transitional government to be appointed by the Syrians, capable of establishing a political system through free and fair elections under United Nations supervision, while respecting the wishes of all strata of the Syrian people. They also cautioned against "any ethnic, sectarian or religious discrimination" and called for "justice and equality for all citizens". Furthermore, the ministers stressed the importance of preserving government institutions to prevent Syria from "descending into chaos" and urged the strengthening of "joint efforts to combat terrorism, as it poses a grave threat to Syria, regional stability and global security". In recent days, Mazloum Abdi has consistently stressed the need to prioritise diplomatic efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Syria.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/abdi-stresses-need-to-halt-military-operations-in-syria-following-aqaba-summit/


Protests sweep Europe
Medyanews - December 15, 2024
<<Protests sweep Europe against Turkish attacks on NE Syria
A wave of protests took place in cities across Europe on Saturday, as thousands of people condemned Turkey’s military attacks in North and East Syria (Rojava), citing the threat to the people's self-governance model in the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) and the growing humanitarian crisis. The demonstrators also accused European institutions and states of complicity in the massacres of the people in AANES, by their selling of weapons to Turkey. The demonstrations took place following a call to action by the Rise Up 4 Rojava campaign, and just a few days after another wave of demonstrations in solidarity with the people of North and East Syria last week. People from the Kurdish diaspora in Europe joined the protests, as well as thousands of friends and supporters of the Kurds. The demonstrators condemned the attacks of the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) and Turkey against the people living in North and East Syria, and accused Turkey of carrying out a genocidal policy. The demonstrators also called for solidarity with the people of North and East Syria in their resistance against the attacks.
Solidarity rallies
The demonstrations were organised under the leadership of the European Kurdish Women's Movement (TJK-E). The demonstrators raised banners bearing slogans such as “Defend Rojava” and “Stop Turkey’s genocide in Rojava”, as well as the Kurdish slogans "Jin, Jiyan, Azadi" (Woman, Life, Freedom) and "Biji Berxwedana Rojava!" (Long Live the Rojava Resistance). Rallies and events took place in major European cities, including capitals such as Berlin, Paris, Vienna, Rome, Amsterdam and Oslo. Protests spread to other cities, including Frankfurt, Munich, Cologne, Hanover, Kassel, Bremen, Leipzig, Dresden in Germany, Strasbourg and Rouen in France, Innsbruck and Bregenz in Austria, Manchester and Cardiff in the UK and Turin in Italy. Organisers called for international recognition of Rojava's democratic project and an end to Turkey's military operations.
People protesting against Turkey's attacks against North and East Syria in Rome
Activists in the city of San Cristóbal de las Casas in Mexico sent a message of solidarity for Rojava and organised a seminar to discuss the recent developments in the war in Syria, and the model of the AANES. A banner with the slogan "Defend Rojava from Erdogan and ISIS" was unfurled by Bayern fans and help up for the duration of a football match between Mainz and FC Bayern Munich.
FC Bayern Munich supporters unfurl banner in solidarity with Rojava (North and East Syria)
Message of solidarity: We owe it to Rojava not to remain silent
At the action in Hamburg, Germany, Left Party MP Cansu Ozdemir said. "The slogan "Jin, Jiyan, Azadi" has become both a global manifesto for women's freedom and a nightmare for oppressive regimes. Ultimately, it is the Kurdish people and women who will prevail," she said. In Norway's capital Oslo, Bente Knagenhjelm of the Norwegian Green Party spoke at the rally. "No longer are the mountains the only friends of the Kurds, we are all friends of the Kurds," she said, referring to a Kurdish saying dating back to a time when the Kurdish people could only rely on their own strength (and the mountains, typical of where they live) to defend themselves from outside attacks. German author and activist Anja Flach highlighted the heavy humanitarian toll of the ongoing violence. "Hundreds of thousands are being displaced again by Turkey's attacks. It is a day to stand with those who are suffering from this war," she urged. In Rouen, France, local activists called for global solidarity. "Rojava's struggle is a struggle for all humanity. We owe it to Rojava not to remain silent," said a French activist. Speakers at all the events warned of dire consequences if Turkey's actions continue, and called for immediate international intervention to safeguard Rojava's stability and gains to date.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/protests-sweep-europe-against-turkish-attacks-on-ne-syria/


Protests across Turkey condemn Turkish strikes on Rojava
Medyanews - December 15, 2024
<<Protests across Turkey condemn Turkish strikes on Rojava, demand peace
Protests have erupted across Turkey against ongoing strikes in North and East Syria (Rojava), with demonstrators criticising government policies for worsening Syria's crisis. Activists demand democratic dialogue and peace, warning of dire consequences for the entire Middle East. Protests erupted across Turkey on Saturday against ongoing military strikes in North and East Syria (Rojava), as activists condemned the government's policies as exacerbating regional instability. Demonstrators from various cities called for an end to the military aggression, saying that peace is the only path forward. Amed Labour and Democracy Platform gathered in Diyarbakır (Amed) outside the city's AZC Plaza business centre to decry Turkey’s involvement in the region. Holding banners stating "The solution lies in peace, not war" and chanting "No to war, peace now!" and other slogans, the crowd included representatives from civil society organisations and political parties. Co-chair of the Diyarbakır branch of the Education and Science Workers' Union (Egitim Sen) Saliha Zorlu, urged an end to the conflict. "Wars bring no solutions," she said. "Peace is the only answer for workers, the unemployed and wider society." Faruk Ercan, spokesperson for the Public Employees Union (KESK), stressed the broader implications of Turkey's policies. "These actions are not only affecting Syria, but destabilising the entire Middle East. For over a century, the region has suffered from crisis-driven systems imposed after World War I," Ercan stated. He accused the government of collaborating with jihadist groups through the Syrian National Army (SNA), further undermining peace efforts. The People's Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party held a similar protest outside its provincial headquarters in İzmir. Branch Co-chair Aysel Onen criticised the targeting of North and East Syria, calling it a threat to the future of all Syrians. "Rojava's model of coexistence is a solution to the crises of the Middle East," Onen said. "Defending Rojava is a global responsibility. We urge the international community to speak out." Further protests took place in Muş (Muş), led by the DEM Party and the Free Women's Movement (TJA). Activists highlighted the Kurdish population's right to self-determination. The DEM Party's Muş branch co-chair Yafes Dinar denounced support for paramilitary groups who target Kurdish achievements. "The attacks are intended to dismantle Rojava's autonomous system," Dinar said, while TJA representative Hatice Şeker described the strikes as being attacks on democracy itself. In Ankara, the DEM Party's Ankara branch co-chair Tatlıgul Gul stressed the urgent need for democratic dialogue. "Amid ongoing conflict, Rojava is under attack," she stated. "These strikes are worsening Syria's crisis and obstructing any chance of resolution." Protesters across Turkey called for the international community to take action. "This is not just about Rojava; it's about the future of all peoples in Syria," said one demonstrator in Diyarbakır. The rallies concluded with chants and applause, echoing a collective demand for peace and justice.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/protests-across-turkey-condemn-turkish-strikes-on-rojava-demand-peace/

Medyanews - December 15, 2024
<<Turkey-SDF ceasefire collapses amid Turkish aggression on Syria border
Ceasefire negotiations between Turkey and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have failed despite US-led mediation efforts. Turkey's demands, which included a militarised zone near the Qara Quzaq Bridge, halted progress. Kurdish leaders warn of escalating threats to regional stability. Efforts to broker a ceasefire between Turkey and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Syria have collapsed, according to sources from the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES). The talks, mediated by the US-led International Coalition, aimed to prevent further conflict along the volatile Syrian-Turkish border. Turkey reportedly demanded the relocation of the tomb of Süleyman Şah to its original site near the Qara Quzaq (Qere Qozaq) Bridge, a strategic bridge over the Euphrates between Manbij (Minbic) and Kobani (Kobanê). In addition, Ankara sought control of a one-kilometre militarised zone in the area. These conditions, viewed as unacceptable by the SDF, ultimately derailed the agreement, sources have revealed. Speaking on Sterk TV on Saturday, prominent Syrian-Kurdish diplomat and Foreign Relations Co-chair for the AANES Ilham Ahmed, criticised Turkey's actions in the region. "Turkey takes out all of its anger on the Kurds, on North and East Syria," she said. Ahmed argued, "Turkey wants to push forward its project under the pretext of security, but this will become clear from now on." Ahmed also noted growing regional unease over Turkey's ambitions. "The Arab states are scared of Turkey's role because if Turkey takes control of Damascus, it means Turkey can threaten Arab countries from there," she warned. The failed ceasefire coincides with renewed military activity. Turkish drones are reportedly continuing surveillance missions in SDF-controlled territories near Kobani. The US deployed additional military units to the Qara Quzaq area earlier this week, intending to monitor the situation and facilitate dialogue between the parties. Earlier on Saturday, SDF Commander Mazloum Abdi had expressed optimism about a potential ceasefire, stating on Kurdish media that the group was prepared to discuss Turkey's demands, including the relocation of the tomb of Suleyman Şah. However, these hopes were dashed as neither side reached a compromise. During her comments, Ilham Ahmed highlighted the broader geopolitical stakes in Syria. "Syria's political process will be decided in Jordan," she noted, referencing a recent summit involving Arab and Western nations. She stressed that Turkey's actions jeopardise not only Kurdish autonomy but also the region's fragile stability.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/turkey-sdf-ceasefire-collapses-amid-turkish-aggression-on-syria-border/

Al Jazeera - Dec 15 2024
<<Israel approves plan to surge settler population in occupied Golan Heights
Move comes days after rebel groups toppled Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad, weeks before Donald Trump becomes US president again.
Israel's government has approved a plan to increase the number of settlers in the illegally occupied Golan Heights, days after seizing more Syrian territory following the toppling of Syria's longtime leader Bashar al-Assad. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said the government had "unanimously approved" the <demographic development> of the occupied territory, which would seek to double the Israeli population there. The new plan is only for the portion of the Golan Heights that Israel has occupied since 1967. In 1981, Israel’s Knesset moved to impose Israeli law over the territory, in an effective annexation. The plan does not relate to the portion of Syrian land seized by Israel in the wake of al-Assad's toppling a week ago. The seized area, which had been demilitarised as part of an agreement reached after the 1973 war, also includes Mount Hermon overlooking the Syrian capital Damascus. In a statement, Netanyahu praised the plan, which provides more than 40 million shekels ($11m) to increase the settler population. There are about 31,000 Israeli settlers spread across dozens of illegal settlements in the Golan Heights already. They live alongside minority groups, including the Druze, who predominantly identify as Syrian. <Strengthening the Golan is strengthening the State of Israel, and it is especially important at this time,> Netanyahu said. <We will continue to hold onto it, cause it to blossom, and settle in it.>
Reporting from Amman, Jordan, Al Jazeera's Nour Odeh said the approval comes at what Israel views as an "opportune moment". While Israeli occupation of the Golan Heights is illegal under international law, during his first term in office, from 2017 to 2021, US President-elect Donald Trump made the United States the first country in the world to officially recognise Israeli sovereignty over the area. Trump is set to retake office again on January 20 after winning the US presidential election in November. "Netanyahu is using this moment to announce more settlement activity in order to entrench that occupation and make it permanent," Odeh said. "Much like he's doing in the occupied West Bank: land grab, settlements, permanent occupation." Meanwhile, Netanyahu's office said he had discussed the situation in Syria during a phone call with Trump on Saturday. He also discussed efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Despite Israel launching hundreds of strikes on Syrian sites since opposition groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew al-Assad and moved to create a transitional government, Netanyahu said: <We have no interest in conflict with Syria.> He said the attacks were to <thwart the potential threats from Syria and to prevent the takeover of terrorist elements near our border>.
On Sunday, Saudi Arabia was among the first to condemn Israel's new plan to increase the number of settlers, while accusing Israeli leaders of seeking to sabotage Syria's fledgling transition.>>
SOURCE: AL JAZEERA:
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/12/15/israel-approves-plan-to-surge-settler-population-in-occupied-golan-heights


Turkish attack on Qara Qozaq
Jinha - Womens News Agency - December 15, 2024 - by DILPAK DAG
<<Solidarity grows in Aleppo: We will heal our wounds together
The Syrian Free Women's Foundation has launched a campaign to provide aid to women and children displaced from Shahba. "We will heal our wounds together," said Verjin Mihemmed, one of the foundation managers.
Aleppo- The Syrian Free Women's Foundation has launched a campaign in Aleppo’s Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh neighborhoods to provide aid to women and children displaced from Shahba to Aleppo. Kongra Star, the Sara Organization to Combat Violence against Women, the Nudem Organization and the Sterk Committee contribute to the campaign launched by the foundation. The communes and committees in the region also support the civilians displaced to Shahba canton of North and East Syria by the attacks of the Turkish state and Turkish-backed factions. The displaced people first register at the centers formed by communes. The foundation collects basic supplies such as clothes, milk, diapers etc. for children aged 1-12 and women while the Martyr Şilan Kobane Council delivers these supplies to the families displaced to the canton.
'We will heal our wounds together'
The campaign aims to provide aid to women and children displaced to Aleppo from Shahba by attacks, Verjin Mihemmed, one of the foundation managers, told NuJINHA. "As the women of the foundation and organized women, we want to do our best for the displaced people of Shahba canton. We believe that we will heal our wounds together," she said, adding that the foundation would keep collecting and distributing aid supplies for the displaced people.>>
Source/video: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/solidarity-grows-in-aleppo-we-will-heal-our-wounds-together-36162

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