Al-Hilal women clarify return to west Asia championship

The statement said: “In light of the recent appeals regarding our participation in the West Asia Championship, and the decision to exclude us while contacting other players to carry out this mission — a measure imposed on us as punishment for not participating in celebrations in solidarity with the families of martyrs and prisoners at the time — we would like to clarify the following:

A meeting was held with Mr. Siamand Afrin, during which our demands were fully heard. It was agreed to begin preparations for the West Asia mission, organize appropriate training camps, pay all outstanding financial dues to the players, and provide all the necessary conditions and atmosphere to ensure the success of this national and sporting mission.

It was also emphasized that every individual who insulted any player or any member of the women’s team’s technical or administrative staff would be held accountable. The meeting stressed that the role of women is pioneering and worthy of respect and appreciation, and that no party or individual will be allowed to undermine or disrespect this role in any way.

At the same time, it was affirmed that the sanctity of the martyrs and the resistance of the prisoners are a red line, and that anyone proven to have committed any violation or insult will face appropriate consequences.

It was further explained that the preoccupation with the prisoners’ file and efforts to secure the return of the displaced people of Afrin to their homes contributed to a delay and gap in addressing this issue at the time. Nevertheless, it was stressed that any abuse or offense against any player or member of the women’s team is completely unacceptable, and that such behavior is rejected and will be dealt with seriously and responsibly.

For our part, we, the players of Al-Hilal Club and its technical, administrative, and media staff, extend our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the families of the martyrs and prisoners, who have always been and continue to be our moral leaders. We also highly value the efforts of Mr. Afrin, the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), the Executive Council, the Youth and Sports Authority, all institutions, departments, sports and non-sports figures, in addition to media outlets and journalists who supported us throughout this ordeal, which could not have been resolved without the collective efforts and continuous support of everybody.

In conclusion: mercy to the martyrs, freedom for all prisoners, and long live the resistance of ‘Woman, Life, Freedom.’”

ANHA