Defense Body: Turkish massacre constitutes war crime, violates international law

The Co-chair of the Defense Authority in North and East Syria, Ismat Sheikh Hassan, condemned the massacre committed by the Turkish occupation in the Kobani countryside, describing it as a "brutal war crime and a flagrant violation of international law, as well as a blatant challenge to agreements that protect civilians."

Deliberate Targeting and Systematic Brutality

Sheikh Hassan's statements followed the massacre that targeted a farm between the villages of Qamji and Barkh Botan in the southern Kobani countryside on the night of March 16-17, which resulted in the martyrdom of an entire family. He emphasized that "the targeting was deliberate." He added, "Turkey once again proves its brutality; it does not differentiate between young and old, continuing to target innocents without restraint."

Complete Disregard for International Agreements

Sheikh Hassan pointed out that this crime occurs despite the ceasefire agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the Damascus Authority, asserting that Ankara acts as if it is above international law. He stated, "Turkey has crossed all red lines, and the Damascus Authority must assume its responsibilities to protect national sovereignty and confront these attacks."

Calls for International Action

Sheikh Hassan called on the international community, particularly the Security Council, to take serious measures to stop Turkish aggressions and hold those responsible accountable, stressing that continued international silence will only exacerbate humanitarian suffering. He added, "What is happening is a war crime against humanity, and the world's silence encourages Turkey to commit further massacres."

He affirmed that the response of the Syrian Democratic Forces is not retaliatory but a defense against repeated and immoral aggressions, noting, "If Turkey were fighting face-to-face, it would not be able to kill our children and women."

Continuing Resistance Despite Daily Bombardment

He concluded by emphasizing that the Syrian Democratic Forces will not remain idle despite the difficult circumstances, stating, "We face daily bombardments and lose innocent civilians, but we will continue to defend our people."

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ANHA