Amuda condemns attempts to change kurdish cities names

The People's Initiative in the city of Amuda issued a public statement today condemning the changing and Arabization of the names of Kurdish cities, towns, and villages.

The statement was read at the Free Woman Square in the city by Arashk Baravi, an administrator with the Union of Intellectuals, in the presence of local residents and members of various institutions who held banners affirming that "language is identity."

The statement read: "Following the agreement of January 29, 2026, a phase of integration began in Rojava. Under the criteria of this integration, the Kurdish people were recognized as a nation and an integral component of Syria; consequently, it is essential that all activities and operations be grounded in the standard and principle of the Kurdish presence in Syria."

The statement noted that, recently, numerous incidents have occurred that violate this standard. Most notably, there have been attempts to change the name "Kobani" to "Ain al-Arab." It added: "At the same time, the Interim Government seeks to impose this policy across the entire Kurdish region, aiming to alter place names and gradually strip these areas of their Kurdish identity."

The statement pointed out that this stance completely contradicts the January 29th agreement and simultaneously targets the Kurdish language, identity, and existence. Rejecting this position outright, it declared: "We are Kurds; our language is Kurdish, and our lands and regions reflect our Kurdish culture and identity. Therefore, the Interim Government must respect this reality, acknowledge it, and formally recognize it in law."

The statement continued: "We, the people of Amuda, demand that officials respect our existence, language, and history, and we affirm that we will not accept any expansionist agendas that deny the existence of the Kurdish people. For the integration process to succeed, the Interim Government must fulfill its obligations and responsibilities. Furthermore, the Kurdish people as a whole must remain vigilant and cautious in this regard."

In conclusion, the statement emphasized that the Kurdish people "will make no concessions on these issues and will not accept any attacks targeting their existence and identity. We hope that all parties will fulfill their duties and uphold civil and social peace."

Sh-S

ANHA