CRY FREEDOM.net
formerly known as
Women's Liberation Front
'Insight is the first step of resistance against any ideologic form of dictatorial and misogynistic oppression'
and
'Freedom is like a bird
that nests in ones' soul'

Welcome to cryfreedom.net, formerly known as Womens Liberation Front.  A website that hopes to draw and keeps your attention for  both the global 21th. century 3rd. feminist revolution as well as especially for the Zan, Zendegi, Azadi uprising in Iran and the struggles of our sisters in other parts of the Middle East. This online magazine that started December 2019 will be published every 2 days. Thank you for your time and interest. 
Gino d'Artali
indept investigative journalist
radical feminist and women's rights activist 
'WOMEN, LIFE, FREEDOM'

You are now at the section on what is happening in the rest of the Middle east
(Updates April 13, 2025)
For the Iran 'Woman, Life, Freedom' Iran   
April 11, 2025

International Womens Day Middle East 2025
Actual News: March 11 - 8, 2025 09.30 AM GMT

2025: April wk2P2 -- April wk2 -- April wk1P2 -- April wk1 -- March wk4P2 -- March wk4 -- March wk3 -- March wk2P2 -- March wk2 -- March wk1P2 -- March wk1 -- Feb wk4 -- Feb wk3P3 -- Feb Wk3P2 -- Feb-wk3-and wk2P3 -- Feb wk2P2 -- Feb wk2 --  Feb wk1P2 -- Feb wk1 -- Jan wk4 -- Jan Wk 3 -- Jan wk2
2024: Dec wk2 -- Dec wk1P2 -- Dec wk1
Click here for an overview of the Women's Arab Spring Revolt 1.2 2024 and 2023

 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.

YPJ The Women’s Protection Units fighters


lawsuit against Syrian interim leader for alleged mass killings
Medyanews - April 12, 2025
<<France accepts lawsuit against Syrian interim leader for alleged mass killings
A French court has accepted a lawsuit accusing Syria’s interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa, and top officials of genocide against Alawite civilians. The case alleges over 50 massacres in Syria’s coastal region. A French court has accepted a lawsuit against Syria’s interim president, Ahmad al-Sharaa (al-Jolani), and several ministers, accusing them of genocide and crimes against humanity. The case, filed on 11 April by French lawyer Pedro Andujar on behalf of the French-Alawite Assembly, a group representing Alawite immigrants in France, targets al-Sharaa, Defence Minister Merhef Abu Qasra, Interior Minister Enes Hattab, and Mohammed al-Jassim, commander of the 25th Division, also known as Abu Amsha. The lawsuit alleges their involvement in over 50 massacres in Syria’s coastal region, primarily targeting Alawite civilians, a minority sect to which ousted president Bashar al-Assad belongs. Legal documents detail severe violations, including the killing of at least 2,500 civilians, mostly Alawites, though some Christian and Sunni families were also affected. The accusations include murder, rape, arson, withholding death certificates, targeting schools and private property, and forced displacement aimed at demographic and sectarian change. Rami Abdul Rahman, director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based monitor tracking Syria’s conflict, stated, “The evidence is ready, and the accusations are clear”. He highlighted that the massacres occurred mainly on 7 and 8 March in the coastal mountains. The lawsuit comes amid heightened tensions in Syria following the fall of Assad’s regime in December 2024. Al-Sharaa, formerly a leader of the rebel group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a coalition that once included al-Qaeda affiliates, was appointed interim president in January 2025. His government has faced criticism for failing to include Syria’s diverse religious and ethnic groups, particularly Alawites, who fear marginalisation under the Sunni-majority leadership. Abdul Rahman added that similar lawsuits are being prepared by Alawite communities in Germany, Belgium and Scandinavian countries, suggesting a broader push for accountability. “This case sends a clear message that we will not accept inaction,” he said, referring to the transitional government’s justice committee, which has made no progress a month after its formation. The case’s acceptance by the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office marks a significant step, though legal proceedings may take years. France has previously prosecuted Syrian war criminals under universal jurisdiction, which allows courts to try international crimes regardless of where they occurred. The outcome could influence Syria’s fragile transition and its relations with Western nations.
Source: https://medyanews.net/france-accepts-lawsuit-against-syrian-interim-leader-for-alleged-mass-killings/

Medyanews - April 12, 2025
<<Öcalan urges democratic organisation, warns of security risks for Syrian Kurds
Ömer Öcalan, Abdullah Öcalan’s nephew and a DEM Party MP, shared insights from his recent visit to İmralı Island where the Kurdish leader has been imprisoned for 25 years. He highlighted that his uncle emphasised the importance of democratic organisation and public support for a successful peace process in Turkey while urging both the DEM Party and Syrian Kurds to stay vigilant against potential security threats. Following his family visit to imprisoned Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan, Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party MP Ömer Öcalan spoke to Yeni Yaşam newspaper, stressing that Öcalan remains hopeful about a peaceful resolution to the Kurdish issue in Turkey. However, he cautioned that the Turkish state must be approached warily, as previous peace efforts, like those in 1993, were derailed by violent disruptions, including the suspicious death of then-President Turgut Özal. Addressing Kurdish concerns about the current peace process, Abdullah Öcalan validated the public’s security doubts, noting they were justified. He referenced the 1993 peace attempt, which ended abruptly with Özal’s death, widely regarded as suspicious by many, including his family. Reports from 2012, when Özal’s body was exhumed, suggested high levels of poison. Öcalan emphasised, “Those who do this to their own man [Özal] will not hesitate to do worse to you. You are not living in a Swiss democracy, and the DEM Party must recognise this reality,” urging caution and preparedness. Ömer Öcalan shared that he conveyed concerns from Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) members, broadcast on television, about the lack of security guarantees for a proposed congress to discuss PKK dissolution and disarmament. Abdullah Öcalan agreed, stating that no safety assurances currently exist for such a gathering and that everyone must ensure their own security in the Middle East’s volatile context.
Abdullah Öcalan strongly condemned the recent massacres of Alawites in Syria’s coastal regions, describing them as brutal acts akin to the Islamic State (ISIS) methods. He warned Syrian Kurds to take precautions, saying they could face “far worse—ten times the violence inflicted on the Alawites”. He advised strengthening diplomatic ties to secure their safety and suggested that Kurds, Alawites and Druze coordinate systems to protect themselves. During the meeting, Abdullah Öcalan underscored the importance of democratic politics, Ömer Öcalan said. Commenting on the recent arrest of İstanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, Öcalan stated that building a democratic Turkish Republic would benefit all, including İmamoğlu’s Republican People’s Party (CHP), by fostering a stronger democratic foundation. Ömer Öcalan also discussed the media coverage of Abdullah Öcalan’s “Call for Peace and a Democratic Society” on 27 February, informing him that it was widely broadcast by international and Kurdish media, with live screenings across Kurdistan. Abdullah Öcalan expressed satisfaction and sent greetings to Kurdish media outlets, particularly Stêrk TV and Medya Haber, wishing them success. Öcalan invited experienced journalists, including Hasan Cemal and Cengiz Çandar, to visit İmralı Island. Ömer Öcalan stressed that his uncle should have access to people from all societal segments and that conditions at İmralı must improve to enable freer communication and work. Ömer Öcalan asked about the media Abdullah Öcalan could access in prison. He replied that he watches Turkish channels like Halk TV, Tele 1 and NOW, and reads Democratic Modernity magazine and select issues of Jineolojî magazine.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/ocalan-urges-democratic-organisation-warns-of-security-risks-for-syrian-kurds/

Medyanews - April 12, 2025
<<US rejects Syria’s interim government as illegitimate
The US has announced it does not recognise Syria’s interim government led by Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham, citing concerns over terrorism and human rights. It urges accountability and regional stability while engaging cautiously until conditions are met. The United States has declared it does not recognise Syria’s interim government led by Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) or its figurehead, Ahmad al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani. On Thursday, US Ambassador Dorothy Shea stated at a UN Security Council briefing that HTS, a group designated as a terrorist organisation by the US, would not be acknowledged as Syria’s legitimate authority. Diplomatic ties remain frozen, and US visas will not be issued to Syrian officials. The decision follows heightened regional tensions, particularly after atrocities in western Syria last month, which the US attributes partly to terrorist groups, including both Syrian and foreign fighters. Shea highlighted concerns about Syria becoming a hub for terrorism, citing ongoing threats from the Islamic State (ISIS), al-Qaeda and Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah. She welcomed a Syrian interim official’s letter on 3 March, pledging that Syria would not harbour terrorists or destabilise the region, but stressed that the US would assess the interim government based on actions, not promises. HTS, formed in 2017 from factions including the al-Nusra Front, controls parts of northwest Syria and leads the interim administration following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024. The US, alongside Israel, fears HTS’s influence could allow Syria to be used as a base for attacks against regional states. Shea affirmed Israel’s right to self-defence against terrorist groups operating near its borders. The US has called for accountability for human rights abuses, including recent crimes against Alawites in western Syria, and urged the interim government to protect minorities and advance justice. Shea also noted positive statements from Israel and Turkey, both wary of conflict in Syria, and pressed the UN Security Council to combat terrorism and curb external actors arming proxy groups. Syria’s status at the United Nations will remain under the “unrecognised governments” category, reflecting the US position that HTS lacks international legitimacy. The US will continue to engage with the interim authorities while withholding formal recognition until conditions are met.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/us-rejects-syrias-interim-government-as-illegitimate/

Medyanews - April 12, 2025
<<Syria’s transitional leader attends Turkey forum as Alawite protests erupt nationwide
Syria’s transitional leader Ahmed al-Sharaa (al-Jolani) meets Turkey’s President Erdoğan at a diplomacy forum, sparking nationwide protests from Alawite communities over massacres by his group in Syria. Ahmed al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s transitional government, attended the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkey on Friday, his first major international outing since Bashar al-Assad’s regime collapsed in December 2024. Al-Sharaa, formerly known as Abu Mohammad al-Jolani, leads Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), a group with jihadist origins now governing Syria’s interim administration. The forum, organised by Turkey’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, drew over 4,000 participants from more than 140 countries to discuss global issues under the theme “Reclaiming Diplomacy in a Fragmented World”. Al-Sharaa met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to address Turkey-Syria relations and regional stability. Erdoğan welcomed efforts “to prevent chaos” in Syria and committed to advocating for the lifting of international sanctions to support its recovery. Al-Sharaa’s visit triggered widespread protests across Turkey, particularly among Alawites, a religious minority. In Muğla, the Bodrum Alawite Bektashi Culture Association filed a criminal complaint against al-Sharaa, accusing HTS of massacres against Alawites in Syria. “We don’t want a bloodstained killer in our country,” said association president Gamze Ardağ outside Bodrum’s courthouse. In Adana, Alawite groups and women’s organisations, including Mor Dayanışma (Purple Solidarity, a women’s rights collective), condemned al-Sharaa’s invitation. Pelin Çiçek, speaking for Mor Dayanışma, highlighted HTS’s alleged abuses, stating, “Women are being killed in Syria, and we won’t stay silent.” Protesters announced plans for a women’s solidarity event in Hatay’s Samandağ on 24 April to support Syrian women. Antalya saw Alawite institutions rally outside the Pir Sultan Abdal Cultural Association (PSAKD), a prominent Alawite organisation, demanding al-Sharaa face international courts. “His arrival is an attack on everyone defending peace and equality here,” said PSAKD manager Abdurrahman Karadağ, linking Syria’s alleged Alawite killings to past massacres in Turkey, such as Sivas and Maraş. In Mersin, the Tarsus Labour and Democracy Platform labelled al-Sharaa a “war criminal”. Platform spokesperson Mahmut Sarıca accused Turkey’s ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) of enabling HTS, stating, “This collaboration makes them complicit in Syria’s genocide”. İstanbul’s Alawite groups gathered in Kadıköy, joined by the pro-Kurdish Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party and other leftist factions. “Syria’s Alawite genocide must end,” read their banners, as Alawite Bektashi Federation vice-president İbrahim Karakaya called for accountability. Erdoğan, speaking at the forum, urged Syria’s territorial integrity and cautioned against new conflicts, citing the “8 December revolution” that toppled Assad. He tied Syria’s stability to regional concerns, criticising Israel’s actions in Gaza and noting dialogues with leaders like US President Donald Trump. Turkey’s stance to support Syria’s al-Sharaa-led transitional government stems from both ideological leanings and practical aims, driven by its 911-kilometre border with Syria. Erdoğan’s government has long supported Sunni rebel groups like al-Sharaa’s HTS, which help Turkey limit Kurdish power and strengthen its regional influence. This approach has heightened tensions with Turkey’s Alawites and Syria’s minorities—Alawites, Druzes, Kurds and Christians—who fear exclusion under HTS’s transitional leadership. Since 2011, Turkey has backed Syrian opposition groups, starting with the Free Syrian Army (FSA). By 2017, Turkey focused on HTS in Idlib, where it took on a peacekeeping role under the 2017–2020 Astana agreements with Russia and Iran. Turkey supplied HTS with weapons and safe routes, claiming it was guiding the group to block Assad’s advance. Turkey’s wider Syria strategy has always drawn questions for overlooking jihadist groups to weaken Kurdish forces, particularly the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Reports from 2014–2015 cited evidence of Turkey allowing Islamic State (ISIS) members to cross its border to fight Kurds in Ayn el-Arab (Kobani), though Turkey denied direct support. US officials later criticised Turkey’s delayed action against ISIS, suggesting tactical alignment against shared enemies like secular Kurds in northeast Syria. Alawites, about 10–15% of Turkey’s population and long sidelined, see al-Sharaa’s visit as part of the AKP’s Sunni-focused policies. Protests in İstanbul and Antalya tied Syria’s sectarian abuses to Turkey’s own Alawite struggles, like the 1993 Sivas Massacre that killed 35 Alevis. “The hatred killing in Syria mirrors Sivas,” said Abdurrahman Karadağ, voicing widespread unease about sectarian favouritism.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/syrias-transitional-leader-attends-turkey-forum-as-alawite-protests-erupt-nationwide/

Medyanews - April 11, 2025
<<Yazidi activist Murad Ismael faces arrest warrant in Iraq for criticising migration minister
Murad Ismael, a prominent Yazidi activist and co-founder of the Sinjar Academy, is facing an arrest warrant issued by an Iraqi court. The warrant follows his outspoken criticism of Iraq's Minister of Migration, Evan Faeq Jabro, over the government's handling of the Yazidi IDP crisis. Ismael believes the charges are politically motivated, aimed at silencing those who expose the ministry's failures to assist displaced Yazidis. Murad Ismael, a well-known Yazidi activist and co-founder of Sinjar Academy, faces an arrest warrant issued by a court in Mosul. The warrant was issued after the Iraqi Ministry of Migration and Displacement filed a complaint accusing Ismael of insulting Minister of Migration Evan Faeq Jabro. Ismael, who has been a vocal advocate for Yazidi rights, particularly regarding the situation of internally displaced persons (IDPs), believes the arrest warrant is politically motivated. The IDP crisis in Iraq, particularly affecting Yazidis displaced by the ISIS attack on Shingal (Sinjar) in 2014, remains unresolved. Many Yazidis continue to live in camps in poor conditions, facing a lack of security and inadequate government support. Ismael has criticised the ministry’s failure to address ongoing displacement issues and the inadequate assistance provided to these communities. Ismael claims that the court issued the arrest warrant without prior notice or an opportunity to defend himself, arguing that this bypasses standard legal procedures. “If they think I will back down from revealing the truth about the Ministry’s failures, they are mistaken,” Ismael said in an X post. “I will hire a lawyer and I am ready to appear before the Iraqi judiciary.”>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/yazidi-activist-murad-ismael-faces-arrest-warrant-in-iraq-for-criticising-migration-minister/

Medyanews - April 11, 2025
<<AANES to dispatch second humanitarian aid convoy to survivors of massacre in Syria’s coastal areas
The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), in cooperation with the Kurdistan Red Crescent (Heyva Sor a Kurd), is preparing to send a second humanitarian aid convoy to Syria's coastal regions to provide essential assistance to survivors of the recent Alawite massacre. The Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), along with the Kurdistan Red Crescent (Heyva Sor a Kurd), is preparing to send a second humanitarian aid convoy to Syria’s coastal regions, specifically Latakia, Tartus, and parts of Homs, to help those affected by the recent Alawite massacre. The convoy is scheduled to leave on 12 April and will include 13,500 food parcels, 11,000 non-food items and 2,500 health kits.
This shipment follows the first phase of aid delivered in March, which included 6,000 food parcels, 2,500 hygiene kits and 350 tonnes of flour. The first convoy supported communities affected by violence between 6 and 10 March, when more than 1,000 Alawite civilians were killed in a massacre attributed to Turkey-backed factions of the Syrian National Army (SNA) and Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) forces. The massacre has sparked international condemnation and calls for accountability. The UN has called for an investigation and Syria’s interim president, Ahmed al-Sharaa, has set up a committee to investigate the violence. Speaking after the delivery of the first phase of aid, Jenny Keasden, an on-the-ground aid volunteer, said, “The Kurdish Red Crescent is sending aid to the coast despite already facing war. Communities who know what it means to suffer often come through for each other long after governments and NGOs turn away.”>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/aanes-to-dispatch-second-humanitarian-aid-convoy-to-survivors-of-massacre-in-syrias-coastal-areas/

Medyanews - April 11, 2025
<<DEM Party women’s assembly ramp up efforts in struggle for democracy and women’s liberation
The meetings and activities of the women's assembly of the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party have intensified in response to the rise of authoritarianism and jihadism, emphasizing the need for a united struggle for democracy, peace and women's liberation. The Women’s Assembly of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party held a gathering under the theme “Women’s Meeting for Peace and Democratic Society”, focusing on the importance of integrating women’s liberation into the broader struggle for democracy. The event saw the active participation of Halide Türkoğlu, spokesperson of the DEM Party Women’s Assembly, members of the Women’s Coordination and a large number of women participants. Speaking about the position of women in the ongoing struggles for peace and democracy, Türkoğlu said: “We emphasise that women are both affected by war and active subjects of peace. We are going through a process that targets society through women”. She elaborated on the growing impact of war on women, highlighting their critical role as both victims and active agents in peace-building processes. Türkoğlu stressed the need for unity in the fight for a society where women are not only survivors of conflict, but also central figures in achieving democratic change. In her speech, Türkoğlu highlighted the interconnectedness of the situation in Turkey and the wider Middle East, stating, “We cannot look at developments in Turkey in isolation from those in the Middle East”. She also reflected on the efforts of women in regions such as northern and eastern Syria, saying, “While there is a model of women’s participation in northern and eastern Syria, we also face anti-women policies from groups such as HTS [Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham].” Türkoğlu emphasised the ongoing struggle for equality, noting that despite patriarchal forces, women continue to fight for a better future. “We are witnessing regimes in the Middle East that produce male-dominated systems,” she continued, “and the construction of war policies has a direct impact on women’s rights”. She affirmed that women’s ongoing struggle for equality and freedom remains central to shaping a future democratic society, with women playing a vital role in the fight for justice from both a social and political perspective. The event also served as a call to action, with Türkoğlu outlining future plans to strengthen women’s political participation. “We want women to be subjects in democratic politics,” she said, stressing the importance of working with women’s organisations in political parties and media that support peace and democracy. She also mentioned plans to organise more meetings with women’s NGOs to expand their efforts and reach more people with their message.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/dem-party-womens-assembly-ramp-up-efforts-in-struggle-for-democracy-and-womens-liberation/


Tülay Hatimoğulları
Medyanews - April 7, 2025
<<Tülay Hatimoğulları at journalism award ceremony: ‘We will continue the struggle for press freedom’
Speaking at the 2024 Successful Journalists of the Year award ceremony, Tülay Hatimoğulları, co-chair of the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, expressed her commitment to press freedom and vowed to create a Turkey where journalists are not killed or imprisoned for doing their jobs. At the 2024 Successful Journalists of the Year award ceremony hosted by the Progressive Journalists Association (ÇGD) in Ankara, Turkey, Tülay Hatimoğulları, co-chair of the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party, delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of defending press freedom. The event, held at the Çankaya Municipality Contemporary Arts Centre on Thursday evening, was attended by numerous journalists, writers, and political figures, including Republican People’s Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel. In her remarks, Hatimoğulları addressed the increasing pressure on opposition journalists, saying “We do not accept this pressure, not only as politicians, but also as citizens defending the right to access information”. She expressed solidarity with journalists who have made great sacrifices for the cause of a free press and remembered those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, such as Musa Anter, Vedat Türkali, Uğur Mumcu, Metin Göktepe, Nazım Daştan and Cihan Bilgin. “We will create a Turkey where journalists are not murdered or imprisoned for doing their job”, she stated, reiterating her commitment to a democratic Turkey where journalists can work freely without fear of repression. She added: “We promise on behalf of all citizens of Turkey that no pen will be broken.”
During the ceremony, the “Journalist of the Year Award” was presented to Timur Soykan, a journalist from BirGün. However, Soykan was unable to attend the ceremony as he was arrested earlier that morning. Soykan’s detention highlights the ongoing repression of journalists in Turkey. His absence underscored the challenges faced by independent journalists and served as a poignant reminder of the need to protect press freedom.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/tulay-hatimogullari-at-journalism-award-ceremony-we-will-continue-the-struggle-for-press-freedom/

Medyanews - April 11, 2025
<<102 students released after Istanbul protests
A Turkish court has ordered the release of 102 young people, most of whom are students, detained during protests over the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu. While this is a hopeful moment, the political climate remains tense, with many detainees still facing trial and political repression continuing. An Istanbul court has ordered the release of 102 young people, mostly students, who were detained during protests against the arrest of Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu on 19 March. The protests, which were met with significant police repression, saw participants express their opposition to İmamoğlu’s arrest and wider government actions. The court’s decision on Thursday also lifted the house arrest orders of 25 other people involved in the protests. The detainees were charged with “unarmed participation in an unlawful assembly and demonstration” and “failure to disperse despite warnings”, but the court found that these charges did not constitute serious offences under Turkey’s Criminal Procedure Code. The ruling also took into account the fact that many of those detained are university students, some of whom were in the middle of their exams.
Among those released is Berkay Gezgin, known for coining Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu’s famous campaign slogan “Her şey çok güzel olacak” (“Everything will be very beautiful”). His involvement in the protests and subsequent arrest highlights the role of young people in the demonstrations, many of whom have been vocal in their opposition to the arrest and wider government policies. The protests have led to more than 1,900 arrests across the country, with university students playing a major role in organising demonstrations and campus protests. These youth-led protests have become a symbol of resistance to government policies and the growing authoritarianism under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s administration. Reports have also emerged detailing concerns about the conditions in which many of the detained demonstrators have been held. Several reports have described instances of mistreatment and torture-like conditions in prisons, sparking widespread public outrage. Health problems among the detainees have also been highlighted in court, with documents presented to support the claim that some are in need of medical attention.
Turkey: ‘I cried as a human being’ over torture claims, says MP Tanrıkulu The first trial for the detained youths will take place on 20 June as the legal process continues.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/102-students-released-after-istanbul-protests/


Mother Üveyş
Jinha - Womens News Agency - April 11, 2025
<<Kongra Star: Mother Üveyş became a symbol by carrying the traces of all people
“Mother Üveyş became a symbol by carrying the traces of all people in her female personality,” Kongra Star said in a written statement on the death anniversary of Üveyş Öcalan, mother of Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan.
News Center- Kongra Star has released a written statement to mark the 32nd death anniversary of Üveyş Öcalan, mother of Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan. “On the death anniversary of leader’s Öcalan’s mother Üveyş Öcalan, we bow respectfully before Kurdish mothers, the symbol of resistance and struggle, who sacrifice their lives for their people’s cause.
‘She was patient and had a strong will’
The statement said that Mother Üveyş was patient and had a strong will. “Mother Üveyş, who witnessed the suffering and oppression faced by her people, had always a firm stance against oppressive, politics and social conditions. At her home, she raised a leader inspiring millions of people in the struggle for freedom and democracy. Mother Üveyş always supported her son’s struggle for freedom by believing in the path chosen by her son for justice.”
‘She became a symbol’
“Mother Üveyş became a symbol by carrying the traces of all people in her female personality. As women, we see Mother Üveyş not only as the mother of our leader but also as the source of our resistance and struggle. On her death anniversary, we remember Mother Üveyş with respect and gratitude. We salute all mothers, especially Kurdish mothers, who stand against all injustices and fight for their children to have a free life in the future. We vow once again that we will struggle for freedom, peace and justice until the oppressed people have their legitimate rights.”>>
Source: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/kongra-star-mother-Uveys-became-a-symbol-by-carrying-the-traces-of-all-people-36854?page=1

Medyanews - April 11, 2025
<<Second edition of Düsseldorf Kurdish Film Festival to run from 23–27 April
The Düsseldorf Kurdish Film Festival returns for its second year from 23 to 27 April 2025, bringing a diverse showcase of Kurdish cinema to venues across the German city. The second edition of the Düsseldorf Kurdish Film Festival (DKFF) will take place from 23 to 27 April 2025, offering audiences a curated selection of Kurdish films spanning the past two decades. Organised independently by cultural workers from a range of backgrounds, the festival aims to celebrate and explore the richness and complexity of Kurdish cinema. This year’s central theme is Western Kurdistan (Rojava), with the programme placing particular emphasis on the cultural, political, and social narratives emerging from the region. A key focus will be the achievements of the women’s movement within the Rojava revolution, based in North and East Syria, woven throughout the historical and contemporary films featured. The festival will present 30 films across various genres—including feature films, documentaries, short films, and experimental works—highlighting the global scope and internationalist spirit of Kurdish filmmaking. Directors from across the world are contributing to the programme, underlining the transnational resonance of Kurdish stories. In addition to screenings, the DKFF will host literary events, commemorative gatherings, and discussions with filmmakers. Notably, director Berivan Binevsa will take part in a conversation about her film The Virgin with the Child. The festival will culminate in an awards ceremony.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/second-edition-of-dusseldorf-kurdish-film-festival-to-run-from-23-27-april/


Women of Raqqa condemn killing of two women
Jinha - Womens News Agency - April 11, 2025 - by SILVA AL-IBRAHIM
<<Women of Raqqa condemn killing of two women in Manbij
Women of Raqqa condemn the killing of two women in the name of “honor” in Manbij, saying, “The attacks do not deter us from our struggle, on the contrary, they strengthen our determination to achieve equality.”
Raqqa- Since the Turkish state and Turkish-backed armed groups took control of Manbij, the people of the city have been subjected to many rights violations such as kidnapping, killing, theft, looting and violence. Gender-based violence is at an alarming level in the city controlled by the Turkish state and Turkish-backed armed groups. Two women were kidnapped by Turkish-backed armed groups in Manbij in April. Upon their release, they were killed by their male relatives in the name of “honor”. Women of North and East Syria condemn the killing of the two women, indicating that the aim of the Turkish state is to break women's will. Since the Turkish state and Turkish-backed armed groups took control of Manbij, the women of Manbij “have been subjected to the most heinous crimes such as killing, kidnapping and other rights violations,” said Asya Hüseyin, a resident of Raqqa. The women of Manbij demand the return of the Autonomous Administration (of North and East Syria) to get rid of the nightmare haunting them. Their demand can only be met by an agreement signed between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the interim government. There is an agreement for Afrin, Serêkanîyê (Ras al-Ayn) and Girê Spî (Tell Abyad) but not for Manbij. The situation in Manbij should also be at the table.”
‘The suffering of the people in occupied areas is the same’
The reality in Manbij is no different from the reality in Afrin and Serêkanîyê, emphasized Asya Hüseyin. “The rights violations committed in Manbij are also committed in the other areas controlled by the Turkish state and Turkish-backed armed groups. The people were forcibly displaced from Serêkanîyê and now they are displaced from Manbij. The prisons in the occupied Afrin are full of kidnapped women. Now, women are kidnapped in Manbij. The suffering of the people in occupied areas is the same.”
Resistance in the region
Asya Hüseyin called on the people of Manbij to “hold those who kidnap and kill women accountable because silence will pave the way for more crimes. Governments only express their concerns, watching what has been going on without fulfilling any of their promises. The resistance on the Tishreen dam, protests and support of people are very important now. Civilians keep protecting the dam despite all rights violations and bombardment.”>>
Video: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/women-of-raqqa-condemn-killing-of-two-women-in-manbij-36852


Sana Fathallah Ghenima and Zahra Bouguerra
Jinha - Womens News Agency - April 11, 2025 - by NEZIHA BOUSSAIDI
<<Impunity for femicide in Tunisia encourages perpetrators
Impunity for femicide in Tunisia encourages perpetrators and causes a surge in femicides, say Tunisian women, demanding justice for women.
Tunisia- Tunisia has been experiencing an alarming surge in femicide. Every day, at least one woman or girl is killed by their intimate partner or family member. The silence of the authorities and society and the lack of law protecting women from gender-based violence increase the number of femicides, instead of stopping them. In the country, the current laws fail to protect women and the perpetrators are often rewarded with impunity. On Sunday, a 42-year-old woman was stabbed to death in front of her children by her husband at her home in the city of Manouba.
‘Women are not safe even in their own homes’
“I believe that one of the reasons for the increase in gender-based violence and femicide is impunity,” said Sana Fathallah Ghenima, president of the Association Tunisienne Femmes et Leadership (F&L). “Although Tunisia has legislation and laws to protect women, they are not effectively implemented. Six women were killed in Tunisia in the first three months of 2025. Women should be safe in their own homes; however, they are not safe even in their own homes.” The killed women are not just numbers and statistics, stressed Sana Fathallah Ghenima. “They were daughters, sisters, mothers, aunties and grandmothers. Femicide has devastating psychological and cultural impacts on society as a whole. Tunisia has law No.58 on the elimination of violence against women. However, when women go to police stations to report violence, they are not taken seriously. They are asked to return home.”
‘We must not remain silent against violence’
The killed women are not just cases reported by press outlets, Sana Fathallah Ghenima said, calling on everyone not to remain silent against violence. “Femicide and gender-based violence are crimes against all humanity and we must not remain silent against these crimes. We must understand that gender-based violence can be eliminated by raising awareness in society. Therefore, a comprehensive system must be implemented to protect women and children as well, as they are the primary victims of the consequences of these crimes.”
‘Women are the most affected by economic problems
“Femicide is a widespread violent act that takes place in countries all over the world, including Tunisia,” said social expert Zahra Bouguerra. “Feminist organizations, such as the Tunisian Association of Democratic Women work on this issue. They have carried out a project to understand the reasons for femicide and its psychological, social, and economic consequences. In Tunisia, women are the most affected by economic problems. They are often the ones who remain silent, sacrifice, and endure everything without reacting.”
‘Impunity is one of the main reasons’
Zahra Bouguerra thinks that impunity is one of the main reasons for the increase in femicide and gender-based violence. “Impunity for femicide and gender-based violence in Tunisia encourages perpetrators.”>>
Video: https://jinhaagency.com/en/actual/impunity-for-femicide-in-tunisia-encourages-perpetrators-36851


Timur Soykan and Murat Ağırel
Medyanews - April 10, 2025
<<Journalists Timur Soykan and Murat Ağırel detained amid legal controversy
On 10 April, journalists Timur Soykan and Murat Ağırel were arrested following police raids linked to blackmail allegations made by Erkan Kork, who is under arrest for money laundering. This incident represents a continuing pattern of pressure on the press in Turkey. On the morning of 10 April, journalists Timur Soykan of BirGün and Murat Ağırel of Cumhuriyet were arrested following early morning police raids on their homes. The arrests are linked to allegations of “threats” and “blackmail” made by Erkan Kork, the owner of Flash TV and Bank Pozitif, who is currently under arrest for money laundering offences. Both journalists were reportedly preparing to give voluntary statements to the prosecutor on the day of their arrest. Their homes were searched and digital equipment, including computers and hard drives, confiscated. After the medical examinations, Timur Soykan said: “The gangs will lose, the people will win. This conspiracy, it will all come to an end.” The case stems from allegations made by Erkan Kork, who claims that he was subjected to undue pressure by Ağırel and Soykan during the process of acquiring Flash TV. Kork’s allegations have become a focus of the ongoing investigation. In response to the arrests, the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy (DEM) Party issued a strong condemnation via its official social media account. The tweet read: “Unfortunately, Turkey woke up this morning to a dawn operation targeting journalists. The arrest of journalists Timur Soykan and Murat Ağırel is a clear intervention in the freedom of the press, freedom of expression and access to information. Journalism is not a crime. The attempt to use the rod of justice to stifle critical thought is unacceptable. Turkey must rid itself of this shame. Journalists must be able to carry out their duties freely and without pressure.” The incident has drawn sharp reactions from various political figures. Republican People’s Paty (CHP) General Vice-President Burhanettin Bulut criticised the arrests saying, “The real aim is to intimidate journalists and the free press”. Similarly, the mayor of Ankara, Mansur Yavaş, expressed his disapproval, stressing that the detention of journalists who were about to give voluntary statements reflected a wider problem of the suppression of freedom of expression. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) condemned the actions, stating that detaining journalists for their work violates the public’s right to information. Erol Önderoğlu, RSF’s Turkey representative, said, “These journalists investigate crime, corruption, and legal abuses. Detaining them undermines justice and the principles of a transparent society. Silencing journalists won’t erase the truth. This pressure must stop.”
For now, both Soykan and Ağırel remain in custody, with their legal teams challenging the grounds for their detention. The case has fuelled debate about press freedom and the independence of the judiciary in Turkey.>>
Source: https://medyanews.net/journalists-timur-soykan-and-murat-agirel-detained-amid-legal-controversy/

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