Escalation of Turkish occupation crimes against women in NE,Syria

On December 10, 2024, the Zenobia Women's Gathering issued an official statement mourning the martyrs Qamar al-Sud, Aisha Abdul Qader, and Iman, describing them as fighters who devoted their lives to defending the dignity of their people and their land against the Turkish aggression.

The attack on pioneering women is "an extension of the policy of targeting women"

The statement stated that the crime against the three martyrs represents an extension of the systematic policy pursued by the Turkish occupation state against women in North and East Syria, stressing that women who play pivotal roles in building and organizing their societies have become a primary target of this violence.

The Zenobia Women's Gathering explained that the Turkish occupation does not only target female leaders, but also seeks to destroy women's movements, which are one of the main pillars of the society of North and East Syria, which is witnessing a distinguished experience in empowering women and enhancing their leadership role.

Black record of "a series of horrific assassinations"

The latest attack is just one episode in a long series of crimes targeting female leaders in the region.

The Afrin region witnessed one of the most heinous crimes when the occupation army and its mercenaries mutilated the body of the fighter Barin Kobani, which sparked a wave of global resentment.

The assassination of politician Hevrin Khalaf, Secretary-General of the Future Syria Party, while she was heading to Raqqa.

Targeting activists Heboun Mala Khalil, Zahra Barkal, and Amina Wesi in the village of Halanj in Kobani.

The assassination of the Commander-in-Chief of the Counter-Terrorism Forces, Jiyan Tolhildan, and her two companions in an attack targeting their convoy.

Targeting the co-chair of the Qamishlo Council, Yusra Darwish, and her deputy, Liman Shweish.

These crimes demonstrate a clear pattern of violence directed against female leaders in an attempt to undermine the role of women in building a free and equal society.

Messages of the Turkish occupation: “Violence to terrorize society”

The ongoing escalation of the Turkish occupation state indicates attempts to consolidate messages of terror against women in northern and eastern Syria. By targeting female leaders, the occupation seeks to destroy any symbolism of strength and empowerment that women represent in this part of the world.

Observers of Syrian affairs confirm that the recent attacks have strategic and political dimensions aimed at obstructing community organizing efforts in the region, and undermining the democratic experience led by women through civil institutions and popular councils.

Calls for international intervention “Enough silence”

With the recurrence of these crimes, the voices of human rights organizations and international women’s communities are rising to hold Turkey accountable and stop its crimes in Syria. These groups demand the imposition of international sanctions on the Turkish regime and pressure it to abide by international laws that prohibit targeting civilians, especially women.

The Zenobia Women's Gathering concluded its statement by renewing its pledge to continue the struggle, and stressed that the martyrdom of the activists Qamar, Aisha and Iman will not deter them from continuing to defend freedom and dignity. It called on the international community to take immediate action to protect women in North and East Syria from systematic Turkish violence.

A message of challenge and struggle

In the face of this tragedy, the women of North and East Syria remain a symbol of steadfastness and struggle, determined to protect their gains and complete the path of the martyrs in order to achieve a democratic society based on equality and justice.

The martyrdom of Qamar, Aisha and Iman does not represent an end, but rather a new beginning for an ongoing resistance against the occupation and its oppressive policies.

T/ Satt.

ANHA