Female protesters at Tishrin Dam: Symbol of national struggle

Women in Raqqa affirm that their fight continues to defend the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) and to protect Tishrin Dam from ongoing Turkish attacks, emphasizing that their presence at the dam carries a strong national and resistance symbolism in the face of persistent aggression.

Female protesters at Tishrin Dam: Symbol of national struggle
24 February, 2025   03:50
NEWS DESK - RAQQA

 For over 45 days, residents of North and East Syria have maintained a continuous presence at Tishrin Dam to safeguard it from Turkish attacks and support the resistance efforts of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ). Women have played a pivotal role in this struggle, standing at the forefront of defending their land and fundamental rights.

 Jihan Mohammed, the coordinator of the Zenobia Women's Gathering in Raqqa, highlighted the crucial role of women in the resistance, stating:"We remain steadfast on this path of struggle. Despite the repeated bombardments, we will not be deterred."

Mohammed issued a direct appeal to the international community: "How long will this silence persist? How long will we continue to endure these hardships?"

 Mohammed reaffirmed that the civilian presence at the dam, unarmed yet resolute, is a testament to their unwavering commitment to defending their homeland and dignity:

"We stand by our sons and daughters in this fight, and we will continue on the path of our martyrs until justice, equality, and freedom are achieved."

 Hediya Sheikh Hassan, the co-Deputy of the Education Authority in North and East Syria, underscored that their participation in protecting Tishrin Dam is a message of peace to the world:

"We are here to defend our land and resources. No force can erase us."

 She also honored the memory of Martyr Karam Al-Hamad, the leading member of the Zenobia Women’s Gathering, who was among the first to take a stand at the dam to amplify the voice of the people.

"Today, Tishrin Dam has become a symbol of resistance. The attacks have not only targeted civilians but also journalists, nature, and everything that embodies life."

 Hediya Sheikh Hassan vowed to continue the struggle in honor of the martyrs, striving toward a democratic Syria where all communities and identities can coexist in dignity and freedom.

 Meanwhile, Niroz Muslim, the deputy head of the Women’s Authority in the Autonomous Administration, emphasized that the resistance at Tishrin Dam has persisted for nearly two months. She warned that continued Turkish attacks could lead to a humanitarian disaster affecting not only Syria but also Iraq, should the dam collapse.

 "We strongly condemn these attacks and call on international humanitarian and human rights organizations to take immediate action."

 Niroz Muslim reaffirmed that women’s presence at the dam stands as a powerful symbol of national and global resistance.

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ANHA