2024: 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.

Medyanews - December 12, 2024
<<Turkey-backed attacks disrupt anti-ISIS Operations in North Syria, SDF Commander warns
In an exclusive interview with Sky News, General Mazloum Abdi, the leading figure of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has issued a stark warning about the escalating threat posed by Turkey-backed rebel groups. The are forcing the SDF to suspend operations targeting the remnants of the terrorist group in northern Syria. In an exclusive interview with Sky News, General Mazloum Abdi, the leading figure of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has issued a stark warning about the escalating threat posed by Turkey-backed rebel groups. The attacks, Abdi stated, are forcing the SDF-one of the most crucial allies in the US-led coalition against ISIS-to suspend operations targeting the remnants of the terrorist group in northern Syria.
Abdi explained that the aggression from Turkey-supported mercenaries has destabilised the region, jeopardising hard-won security achievements. "Instead of focusing on ISIS cells, our resources are being redirected to protect our borders and communities from attacks," Abdi said. This shift, he warned, could create a dangerous vacuum, allowing ISIS to regroup.
A call for international action
The commander called on the US and the international community to hold Turkey accountable for its support of armed groups that are undermining regional stability. These factions, he added, have been emboldened by Turkey's policies, launching frequent assaults that not only threaten the SDF but also imperil civilians in the territories liberated from ISIS. Abdi described the attacks as part of a broader strategy aimed at dismantling the autonomous administration established in northern Syria-a region that has become a rare bastion of pluralism and democracy in the Middle East. "This is not just about the SDF. It is a deliberate attempt to dismantle everything we have built," he said.
Implications for the global fight Against ISIS
The timing of these attacks is particularly troubling, as ISIS continues to carry out sleeper-cell operations in the region. The SDF has played a pivotal role in containing the group’s resurgence, maintaining security in camps holding thousands of ISIS fighters and their families. Without sustained operations, Abdi warned, the risks of ISIS regaining ground grow exponentially. "Global security depends on the stability of this region,” he emphasised, urging international allies to step up efforts to shield northern Syria from external aggression. Failure to act, he cautioned, could have dire consequences far beyond the region, enabling ISIS to resurface as a global threat."
Broader regional dynamics
Abdi's comments also shed light on the complex dynamics of northern Syria, where Turkey’s influence continues to expand. Analysts argue that Turkey's support for these groups is part of a wider geopolitical agenda, aimed at countering Kurdish-led governance and securing territorial control. This ongoing conflict not only disrupts local stability but also risks drawing major powers deeper into the quagmire. For Abdi, the path forward is clear: "We need stronger commitments from our allies. Silence in the face of aggression is complicity." His appeal underscores the urgency of safeguarding a region that has been instrumental in the fight against one of the world’s most dangerous terrorist organisations>>
source: https://medyanews.net/turkey-backed-attacks-disrupt-anti-isis-operations-in-north-syria-sdf-commander-warns/

Medyanews - December 12, 2024
<<Turkey accused of undermining anti-ISIS efforts by supporting jihadist groups
Turkey's support for jihadist groups in Syria is raising concerns about the effectiveness of the US-led coalition's fight against ISIS, amid escalating tensions with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). The United States faces growing challenges in Syria, as Turkey’s reliance on jihadist groups to consolidate territorial gains threatens the US-led fight against ISIS. As the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime creates a power vacuum, Washington's partnership with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) is coming under increasing strain from Ankara’s military ambitions and alliances.
Turkey has intensified its military operations in northern Syria, targeting SDF positions and seizing key areas such as Manbij (Minbic) and Tal Rifaat. Ankara's coalition includes the Syrian National Army (SNA), a group with links to jihadist groups. The SNA has clashed with the SDF, which has been instrumental in the US-led campaign against ISIS. Despite repeated warnings from Washington, Turkey's actions risk undermining stability in the region. "The US cannot allow actions that compromise our partners in the fight against ISIS," said John Kirby, White House national security communications adviser. He reiterated that the SDF remains a critical ally in ensuring the defeat of ISIS. Ankara's military campaign appears aimed at establishing a buffer zone along its border and curbing the SDF’s influence. Turkey regards the SDF as an offshoot of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK). This stance has put Turkey at odds with its NATO allies, particularly the US, which supports the SDF. Turkey's alignment with groups such as Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has drawn criticism. Once designated as a jihadist organisation, HTS has been involved in operations that analysts say could further destabilise Syria. On the other hand, HRW has reported that tens of thousands of civilians seeking safety in Kurdish-controlled northeast Syria are enduring dire conditions due to inadequate shelter, water, food, and healthcare. The influx of displaced individuals has overwhelmed reception centres in areas like Tabqa and Raqqa, prompting the establishment of additional centres in Kobani, al-Hasakah, and Qamishli. Displaced persons have recounted harrowing experiences, including children suffering from hunger and cold, and pregnant women giving birth without medical care. In response to Turkey's actions, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited Ankara for high-level talks. According to a State Department statement, Blinken is urging Turkey to respect minority rights and to ensure that its military operations do not endanger US forces or their mission. The Pentagon has also been engaged in diplomatic efforts, with Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin stressing the importance of coordination to prevent incidents such as the recent friendly fire downing of a US MQ-9 Reaper drone by SDF forces. Meanwhile, the US continues its military operations to prevent an ISIS resurgence. Recent air strikes on ISIS strongholds underscore the importance of the US-SDF partnership. General Erik Kurilla, commander of US Central Command, reaffirmed this commitment during a visit to Syria, stating: "There should be no doubt that we will hold any organisation accountable for supporting ISIS." Turkey's actions have also come under international scrutiny. Israel, which has been carrying out airstrikes in Syria to neutralise weapons stockpiles, has reportedly been in talks with the SDF. This development has raised concerns in Ankara, with Turkish officials accusing Washington of facilitating such talks to bolster the SDF's position. The relationship between the US, Turkey and the SDF highlights the complexities of post-Assad Syria. As Turkey continues to use jihadist-linked groups to achieve its strategic objectives, Washington faces the dual challenge of maintaining its alliance with Ankara while safeguarding its partnership with the SDF. The outcome of this dynamic will significantly shape Syria's future stability and the broader fight against ISIS.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/turkey-accused-of-undermining-anti-isis-efforts-by-supporting-jihadist-groups/

Medyanews - December 12, 2024
<<Salih Muslim: The social contract of the AANES can help to build a future Syria
Democratic Union Party (PYD) board member Salih Muslim is hopeful that peace and democracy are possible in a post-Assad Syria. He emphasises that "we are not looking for more sacrifices or more victims, we have to find an end for that, which is to live in peace."
In an exclusive interview with Medya News correspondent Emrah Erdoğan, Salih Muslim, Democratic Union Party (PYD) board member, talks about what the future holds, after the taking of Damascus by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
Interview Story:
Exclusive Interview: Salih Muslim, co-chair of Syria's Democratic Unity Party
Muslim says that the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime "is a big step toward the democratic Syria which we are struggling for," and raises the possibility of discussions with HTS over coexistence in the future. He says that the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) is searching for the appropriate channels and mediators to approach HTS. Muslim acknowledges the jihadist roots of HTS, but say that the group is trying to change, and that the PYD will try to support them in making that change. According to Muslim, the real problem is not with HTS, but the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA). Muslim emphasised that the SNA are mercenaries, who Turkey have already deployed in several different warzones, and who - right now - are fighting Kurdish forces in Manbij (Minbîc). Turkey is also carrying out aerial strikes on AANES territory. He continued, outlining his hope that a delegation, made up of representatives of all the different regions under control of the AANES, would be involved in any future negotiations. Muslim underlined that Turkey did "not accept Kurdish existence anywhere", and that the Turkish state wanted to establish a new Ottoman empire. He sees Turkey's involvement as the main obstacle to creating a sustainable and peaceful Syria. Medya News' Emrah Erdogan pointed out that "the collapse of the Assad regime opens the door for a reimagined Syria," and asked: "What role does the Autonomous Administration envision for itself in building a democratic and inclusive Syria? How can minority rights and governance structures be integrated into this vision?" Muslim replied that the PYD is "looking for the unity of Syria" and would like to "build a decentralised Syria", based on democratic confederalism. He highlighted that in the territories under the control of the AANES, minorities live together under a social contract. Muslim argued that this social contract could be useful for all Syrians, and "could be expanded", "remediated" and discussed "with the other partners in future Syria". Muslim stated that "we have to reach an agreement for all the Syrians. And I think Syria cannot go back to before 2011." He said that the "new Syria should recognise the rights of all the [peoples] living in Syria."
Reflecting on sacrifice, hoping for peace
Finally, Erdogan asked Muslim about his immense personal losses during the liberation of Kobane, "a city symbolic of resistance against ISIS". He asked "how does your experience during those times shape your current vision for peace and reconciliation in Syria? What message do you have for the people of Kobane and the broader Kurdish population amid these uncertain times?" Muslim replied that the Kurdish people were ignored by the world for 100 years, and "everybody wanted to finish us, to finish the Kurdish people." After Kobane, "everybody knows the Kurds and the Kurdish people, and that they have their democratic rights". Muslim reflected that "The cost was very big", the "blood of the young people, of the Syrians, the Kurdish people. And of course, [my] family was one of those families who sacrificed the cost of this struggle." He concluded that "We are not looking for more sacrifices or more victims, we have to find an end for that, which is to live in peace."
Muslim ended by expressing his hope that Syrians would move toward freedom and democracy in Syria, and away from bloodshed.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/salih-muslim-the-social-contract-of-the-aanes-can-help-to-build-a-future-syria/

Medyanews - December 12, 2024
<<Aleppo's minorities express fear over an uncertain future
An article in the investigative media outlet The Insider examines what the Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham takeover means for Christian, Kurdish, Armenian and Yazidi minorities. The fall of the Assad regime has been celebrated all over Syria - and the world - but the takeover by the jihadist Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has sparked fears of oppression amongst minorities in Syria. An article written by Maria Alexeeva and published by the investigative media outlet The Insider on 9 December shares insights into the realities of the Kurdish, Armenian and Christian minorities in Syria, who are doubtful about HTS’ promises to protect religious and ethnic groups in the country. Alexeeva interviews Mohammed, a Kurdish resident from Sheikh Maqsoud in Aleppo. He spoke about the ongoing curfew, and the HTS siege. According to Mohammed: "the HTS is not touching people yet, trying to save face, trying to show how progressive they are, but people don’t believe them, because they know the past of HTS... minorities are very scared, Kurds, Yazidis and also especially Christians who make up 10 percent of the population of Aleppo. Now they want to put the West's vigilance to sleep," Mohammad said. Mohammad explained that the minorities in Aleppo "fear bloodshed" but that many are staying in their homes, because they'd "rather be killed than leave". Aras Yousef of the Kurdish Peace Institute in Qamishli (Qamişlo) says that Kurds are worried that what happened in Afrin and Serekaniye will now happen again: "Ordinary people, civilians, want security. Some are… against the Assad regime, some are neutral, but the main thing that all Kurds are concerned about is how to avoid the carnage that happened in Afrin and Serekaniye." Thousands have fled from Aleppo to the regions under the control of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), and tent camps have been set up near the Tabqa Dam on the Euphrates river. The conditions in these emergency camps are dire, and in early December a four-month-old baby named Noa Mohammad Rasho - whose family were forced to leave Shahba - froze to death in a camp in Raqqa. At least two Yazidi Kurds have been murdered while fleeing." According to The Insider: "Ahmed Hassou, from the village of Kibar, died while trying to flee the town of Tel Rifat towards Afrin. His wife sustained gunshot wounds and was hospitalised. And on 29 November, Mamdouh Bakr Osman was killed near Aleppo. His family stated that three gunshot wounds were found on his body." There also are reports from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) of hundreds of Kurdish civilians being kidnapped by Turkish-backed mercenaries while they tried to flee. The Insider states that these refugees were "stopped" in their cars, and then "driven in an unknown direction". In Damascus, according to The Insider piece, most people celebrated the fall of Assad’s regime, but there is still a lot of uncertainty about the future. Additionally, there are reports emerging about robberies by HTS fighters. Many people's biggest concern is the Turkey-backed Syrian National Army (SNA). According to Mohammed, the SNA, which is now committing massacres in northern Syria, has "more than 30 groups fighting within their ranks, many of which are known for their atrocities and are officially recognised as terrorist in the US and other states". Aras Yousef told The Insider about the fate of Kurdish refugees from the Afrin region, which was invaded by Turkey in 2018, saying that displaced people from Afrin make up most of the population of the Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah neighbourhoods in Aleppo. Up to 200,000 refugees from Afrin were living in the Shahba Camp north of Aleppo and have now been forced to flee again, after being attacked by the SNA and the Turkish Army. Many of Aleppo's Christians have reportedly now fled to the Kurdish controlled neighbourhoods. But, for the moment at least, HTS are allowing church services in Aleppo to take place. One Syrian-Armenian woman from Aleppo said: "We heard opposition fighters telling locals: don't be afraid, we are not against you, our actions are against the Syrian government, and your life will be better." But Christians are still worried for the future.
Up to 10,000 Armenians remain in the territory under the control of HTS, according to Zare Sinanyan, Chief Commissioner for Diaspora Affairs of the Republic of Armenia. The Armenian Diaspora representative Maria Ibrahim called the HTS' offensive a "Turkish occupation". "We can't imagine life under Turkish rule," an Armenian student from Aleppo told The Insider. "We are scared and unsure of what could happen tomorrow." "Nothing bad has happened in the city so far. Electricity has been given more often, which is good. The lights are on several times a day for longer periods of time. But these are such small things compared to the possible massacres that everyone is talking about," another Armenian woman explained. The Armenians interviewed were worried about their identity, their language and their safety. One interviewee said: "We don't know what might happen later, especially since we are Armenian and the opposition groups are backed by Turkey... What will happen to our Armenian schools, our language? Maybe in a month they will demand that women wear the hijab or forbid to speak Armenian, to teach it in schools. Maybe they will force us to learn Turkish or involve our youth in military service."
The people interviewed by The Insider were deeply sceptical about the positive statements being reported in the media by Aleppo's Armenian Christians. Many say that people are scared to speak out honestly in public.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/aleppos-minorities-express-fear-over-an-uncertain-future/


Medyanews - December 12, 2024 - By Fehim Işık
Fehim Işık | Turkey: An obstacle to stability in Syria
Turkey's policies in Syria hinder stability, writes veteran journalist Fehim Işık, targeting Kurdish gains in the region and perpetuating chaos, as global powers remain silent.
On 8 December, with the fall of the Assad regime in Syria, a new and perhaps even more complex phase has begun. Expecting peace to emerge swiftly from this scenario would be a serious misjudgement. The primary reason for this complexity is the fragmented nature of all parties involved, except for the Kurds. While Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), formerly the al-Nusra Front with roots in al-Qaeda, appears to be the dominant force in the field, the reality will soon prove otherwise. Yes, under HTS leadership, steps will be taken to form a provisional government to govern Syria, and this is beyond doubt. However, this government will neither represent the Syrian people nor cater to the diverse ethnicities and religious groups seeking to live in a free country. These fragmented groups, acting as proxies for various states, will definitely work together only to ensure that stability does not return to Syria or the wider region. For these actors, chaos serves their interests, allowing them to manipulate Syria to their advantage. A major objective for the influential powers behind these proxy groups was to neutralise Russia and Iran which was a goal they have largely achieved.
Kurds as a Cohesive Force in Post-Assad Syria
Following the events of 8 December, the Kurds have emerged as the most organised and cohesive force in Syria. Since declaring de facto autonomy in the Rojava region in 2012, the Kurds have been targeted by Turkey, particularly since July 2015. After HTS-led forces advanced towards Aleppo on 27 November and following the fall of the Assad regime, Turkey has remained active in the region. Turkey initially directed its Syrian National Army (SNA), composed of radical jihadist groups under its influence, towards Til Rifat where displaced Kurdish refugees had settled during Turkey's occupation of Afrin in 2018. Even before the fall of the Assad regime, these refugees were once again forced to flee their lands. Post-regime, Turkey and its allied jihadist groups launched attacks on Manbij, using air and ground forces with reports suggesting participation by at least 60,000 jihadists. These assaults led to the occupation of Manbij. Turkey's aggression continues unabated, targeting key infrastructure like the Qaraqozak Bridge, which connects the banks of the Euphrates, and the Tishrin Dam, essential for water and energy in the region. Kobane remains the primary target, with Turkey also eyeing control over Arab-majority cities like Raqqa, Tabqa, Hasekê, and Deir ez-Zor within the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
International Silence and Turkey's Role in Prolonging Instability
While isolated protests against these attacks have arisen globally, no major power, including the US, has taken effective steps to curb Turkey's actions, many of which qualify as crimes against humanity. US statements occasionally express concern, but they often align with Turkey's narratives, supporting its so-called fight against terrorism. According to statements by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander General Mazloum Abdi, the US has requested the withdrawal of Kurdish forces from areas targeted by Turkey. However, it remains unclear what concessions were made in exchange for this withdrawal or whether Turkey will cease its attacks. Despite a ceasefire announcement, attacks by Turkey-backed jihadist groups and Turkish warplanes have persisted. Most concerningly, civilians, including the wounded in hospitals, continue to fall victim to these assaults, constituting war crimes with no resolution in sight.
Turkey's Opposition to Kurdish Representation in Syria's Future
Turkey's attacks aim to undermine the most cohesive and organised force in Syria, preventing the Kurds from playing a role in the country's future. This attacks have been intensified despite statements from Kurdish political actors and the AANES affirming their commitment to building a democratic and free Syria, and being ready for any resolution and peace process. Even HTS leader al-Jolani, initially expressing liberal messages and signalling change, issued similar commitments. However, states like Turkey and others in the region oppose the inclusion of Rojava's Autonomous Administration in a new Syria. Instead, they promote the Kurdish National Council (ENKS), a group aligned with Turkish interests and lacking genuine representation, and remained within the Syrian Interim Government found by Turkey.
Instrumentalising 'the PKK' as an Excuse of Attacking the Kurds
Justifying their actions by invoking the PKK, Turkey and its proxies aim to impose collective punishment on the Kurds of Rojava and the broader Syrian population. Yet, they ignore that PKK-affiliated forces played a decisive role in defeating ISIS across the region, from Shengal (Şengal) to Erbil (Hewler), from Raqqa to Kobanê, paying a heavy price for these victories. After completing their mission, these forces including the Kurdish ones withdrew to their areas, as they had pledged. Nonetheless, this narrative of <PKK terrorism> continues to fuel Turkey's strategy, turning Rojava into a theatre of oppression and punishing all Syrians who resist.
A Path to Greater Chaos
This perilous and insidious approach, led by Turkey and its jihadist allies, has failed to bring stability to the region and promises only greater chaos. Without addressing this reality, progress in Syria remains an illusion.
Fehim Işık is a specialist journalist, academic and a member of the Kurdish Culture and Research Foundation (KÜRT-KAV). A founding member of the pro-Kurdish Democracy and Peace Party (DBP) established in 1996, Işık was at the party's central executive committee until Turkish Constitutional Court closed the party in 2002.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/fehim-isik-turkey-an-obstacle-to-stability-in-syria/


University women
Medyanews - December 12, 2024
<<Universities of North and East Syria: A model for a democratic and inclusive Syria
As Syria navigates the aftermath of the Assad regime’s fall, international networks of academics highlight the unique, democratic, and de-colonial education model of North and East Syria's autonomous regions as a cornerstone for a transformative and inclusive future. With the fall of the Assad regime, Syria stands at a historic crossroads, with opportunities to build a democratic, decentralised, and pluralistic society. Against this backdrop, the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) has emerged as a guiding force, advocating for inclusion, gender equality, and grassroots democracy. In a recently released statement, prominent international academic networks, including the Centre de Solidarite avec les Universites Alternatives (CSUA), Netzwerk Kurd-Akad, and the Decolonizing Knowledge and Science Network, have called for global recognition of AANES's higher education system. This system, exemplified by universities such as Rojava University (Qamislo), Kobane University (Kobane), and Al-Sharq University (Raqqa), represents a radical departure from traditional academia.
A democratic educational model
These institutions embody principles of participatory and democratic governance, integrating activist scholarship with social movements. The universities' curricula prioritise women’s liberation, sustainable ecology, and grassroots democracy, aligning theory with praxis to foster societal transformation. "The newly established universities in North East Syria region are not only academic institutions but also active agents in the region's broader struggle for freedom and autonomy," the statement reads.
Challenges from Turkey and Islamist groups
Despite its innovative achievements, AANES faces significant challenges. Turkey and its proxy forces under the Syrian National Army (SNA) have continued their assaults on key areas, including Shahba (Şehba), Tel Rifaat (Til Rifat), and Manbij (Minbic). The statement warns of Turkey's efforts to marginalise AANES and impose jihadist, extremist and misogynistic ideologies in the new Syria.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/universities-of-north-and-east-syria-a-model-for-a-democratic-and-inclusive-syria/

France24 - December 12, 2024 - (video by: Sharon GAFFNEY)
<<This is a moment of real opportunity, but also real danger for Syrians, IRC's Donnelly says
Syria's new prime minister said the Islamist-led alliance that ousted president Bashar al-Assad will guarantee the rights of all religious groups and called on the millions who fled the war to return home. FRANCE 24's Sharon Gaffney speaks to Ciarán Donnelly is Senior Vice President of International Programmes at the International Rescue Committee. He says that this is a moment of real opportunity but also of real danger for Syrians.>>
Source: https://www.france24.com/en/video/20241211-this-is-a-moment-of-real-opportunity-but-also-real-danger-for-syrians-irc-s-donnelly-says

France24 - December 12, 2024 - (video)
<<Live: Turkey-backed forces continue advance in north Syria, defence ministry source says
A member of Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) stands in Hasakah, Syria on December 11, 2024.
Turkey-backed rebel forces are advancing against a Kurdish militia in northern Syria, a Turkish defence ministry source said on Thursday. The Turkish-backed group said it is acting to "clear terrorism" in the region.>>
Video: https://www.france24.com/en/middle-east/20241212-live-blinken-on-syria-crisis-tour-with-eye-on-biden-legacy

Jinha - Womens News Agency - December 12, 2024 - by NUPELDA DENIZ
<<'The whole world plays ostrich when it comes to the Kurds'
"The whole world plays ostrich when it comes to the Kurds," say women of Makhmour, condemning the recent attacks on North and East Syria. "As the people of Makhmour, we stand with the people of Rojava."
Makhmour-As of November 27, a new process began across Syria when the Turkish state and Turkish-backed armed groups launched an offensive, displacing tens of thousands of people to safe areas designated by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria. Since then, Turkish drones have targeted civilians in North and East Syria, killing and injuring many people, including women and children. NuJINHA spoke to women of the Martyr Rustem Cudi Camp (Makhmour refugee camp) condemning the recent attacks on North and East Syria.
'People of Afrin are subjected to the attacks of Turkish state again'
"I condemn the attacks on Rojava Kurdistan and support the resistance of its people," said Ruxweş Efrini, who was displaced to the Makhmour refugee camp as a result of the oppression of the Syrian regime. "The people of Afrin were forced to leave their homeland due to the Turkish attacks in 2018 and now they are subjected to the attacks of the Turkish state and Turkish-backed armed groups again. Our people in Rojava Kurdistan have been brutally killed. They (Turkish state and Turkish-backed armed groups) attack civilians just as ISIS did in 2014, killing, kidnapping, and displacing people, especially women and children."
'The silence of the KDP reveals its cooperation'
Ruxweş Efrini also condemned the international silence against the attacks. "The whole world remains silent when it comes to the Kurds. All sovereign powers attack the Kurdish people in cooperation. The Turkish state leads the attacks. The Turkish state uses armed groups to attack the gains of the Rojava Revolution. The KDP cooperates with the Turkish state in Southern Kurdistan while the Kurdish National Council in Syria (ENKS) cooperates with the Turkish state in Rojava Kurdistan. The silence of the KDP against the attacks reveals its cooperation. I call on the international community to not remain silent and take urgent action against the attacks."
'All Kurdish people must support the people of Rojava'
"As the women of Makhmour refugee camp, we support the resistance of the people of Rojava Kurdistan," said Ezize Serti, another resident of the Makhmour refugee camp. "The Turkish state has been brutally attacking the people, including women and children, by using armed groups. The whole world plays ostrich when it comes to the Kurds. As the people of Makhmour, we stand with the people of Rojava because we suffer from the same thing. All Kurdish people must support and protect the people of Rojava. They must raise their voices against the offensive, occupation and genocidal policies of the Turkish state." >>
Source/video: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/the-whole-world-plays-ostrich-when-it-comes-to-the-kurds-36155?page=1


Viyan Mayi
Jinha - Womens News Agency - December 12, 2024 - ASMAA FATHI
<<Kurdish filmmaker Viyan Mayi calls for solidarity with Rojava
In an interview with NuJINHA, Kurdish filmmaker Viyan Mayi criticized the international silence against the ongoing attacks on North and East Syria and called for solidarity with Rojava.
News Center-The international community remains silent against the ongoing attacks on North and East Syria. In an interview with NuJINHA, Kurdish filmmaker Viyan Mayi, who currently lives in Sweden, criticized the international silence and called for defending the gains in Rojava.
Who is Viyan Mayi?
Viyan Mayi is a Kurdish filmmaker from the Mayi village of Colemerg (Hakkari). "I am a Kurdish woman, always proud to be a Kurd," she told NuJINHA. "I am happy to be a woman. I am a filmmaker. I produced films telling stories from my childhood although I never watched a movie. Then, I heard that there was a sector called cinema. I went to Mosul and started writing stories there." Viyan Mayi then moved to Sweden and had the opportunity to study cinema and filmmaking after becoming a mother. "My dream came true. After completing my education, I went to Southern Kurdistan and started producing films. I have directed seven films so far. I shot my first movie called 'Name' with a team from Sweden. All my films are in Kurdish, except the first one. I have received awards at many international and Kurdish film festivals. My most popular films are 'Keça Kurdan (the Kurdish Girl)' and 'Kevoka Spi (The White Dove)."
'I see the system in Rojava Kurdistan as a democratic system'
Viyan also expressed her feelings about the recent situation in Rojava. "As Kurds, we have changed many things in our lives thanks to the revolution in Rojava. Women’s participation in decision-making positions as managers, politicians and fighters is the source of pride, showing that women are capable of doing everything. I see the system in Rojava Kurdistan as a democratic system, in which all people live together. Art develops there. In fact, it (Rojava) is a place of pride and achievement."
'European media does mention the demands of the Kurdish people'
Viyan expressed her sadness for the silence of Swedish media outlets about the Kurds. "They never mention the Kurds. They only write about Syria, the fall of the regime, where and how Assad lives. They tell how armed groups gain power and how they are supported. I think they know the truth, too. The truth is that Kurds will have democracy, human rights, and women's rights and become a role model for the whole world. Therefore, the countries selling arms do not like us. They form armed and terrorist groups. In other words, I can say that Europe plays ostrich against the Kurds, their cause and the price the Kurds have paid. They do not care about the massacres committed against the Kurds and they run away from the truth."
Call for defending Rojava
At the end of her speech, Viyan expressed how she is proud of the revolution in Rojava. "This is, of course, our cause. I call on women all around the world, especially women of Kurdistan to educate themselves well and protect their identity. Stand up for Rojava, Bakkur, Bashur and Rojhilat Kurdistan. All we want is our rights, our homeland, our identity and our language. I support my country and call on all women of Kurdistan and the world to support and be in solidarity with Rojava." >>
Source/video: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/kurdish-filmmaker-viyan-mayi-calls-for-solidarity-with-rojava-36156?page=1 


Hajar Kamal
Jinha - Womens News Agency - December 12, 2024 - ASMAA FATHI
<<Egyptian journalist: Women have an important role in ending current wars and conflicts
Egyptian journalist Hajar Kamal says women have an important role in ending current wars and conflicts suffered by many countries for five years, calling on women's organizations to discuss the effects of wars on women.
Cairo- Women and children are the most vulnerable in times of armed conflict and wars in the Gaza Strip, Lebanon, Syria and other countries. They face displacement, rights violations and attacks. Egyptian journalist Hajar Kamal drew attention to the effects of wars, especially on women, and emphasized that wars and conflicts "affect everyone, undermine human rights but women are the most affected as they are subjected to financial, psychological and many other burdens." In times of armed conflict and wars, women face many challenges, she added. "They have to cope with many challenges such as finding shelter, medicine, water, clothing, daily supplies and food."
'Women in Syria experience never-ending pain'
The fall of the Syrian regime has changed the equation, Hajar Kamal said, "Women in Syria experience never-ending pain; they suffer from the loss of their loved ones in prisons and many conflict burdens and rights violations. The stabilizing of Syria will take time. Women have paid a heavy price due to Syria's instability. The Syrian crisis affects not only Syria but also neighboring countries."
'Women's organizations must take responsibility'
Hajar Kamal pointed to the important role of women in change, calling on women all around the world to unite in order to make a change. "They are capable of doing so because they play an important role in the private and public spheres," she said, calling on "NGOs, especially women's organizations to take responsibility for the recent developments and the effects of wars and conflicts on women."
'Women have an important role in ending current wars and conflicts'
Hajar Kamal thinks that protests can bring the wars and conflicts suffered by many countries to the agenda. "An Arabic proverb says, 'I was devoured the day the white bull was eaten'. The situation in Syria, Gaza, Lebanon and other countries has become extremely critical, affecting the whole world. Radical solutions are needed to end wars and conflicts suffered by many countries. I think raising awareness is extremely important and women have an important role in ending current wars and conflicts. Women's movements and organizations and women should unite to end wars and conflicts." >>
source/video: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/egyptian-journalist-women-have-an-important-role-in-ending-current-wars-and-conflicts-36154?page=1

France24 - December 12, 2024 - (video by: Emerald MAXWELL)
<<Who are the main rebel factions operating in Syria?
Syrian rebels who have ousted Bashar al-Assad and seized the capital Damascus include fighters from different factions, while other groups also hold territory elsewhere. FRANCE 24's Emerald Maxwell takes a look.>>
Source: https://www.france24.com/en/video/20241211-who-are-the-main-rebel-factions-operating-in-syria

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