IDPs from Afrin, Shahba demand safe return

Amid the ongoing suffering of thousands of displaced people from Afrin and Shahba for years, displaced residents in Amuda have demanded the provision of a safe return to their homes following the expulsion of Turkish occupation mercenaries from the area.

Displaced woman Ahlam Maamou said, "We want to return to Afrin safely. We want our language, our identity, and our homes. We left Afrin under bombardment thanks to the Syrian Democratic Forces, and we want to return through them and under their protection."

She stressed that "the return must take place under safe conditions that guarantee we are not subjected to violations or kidnapping attempts by Turkish occupation mercenaries," emphasizing the necessity of these mercenaries leaving the region to ensure security and safety.

She expressed confidence in the Syrian Democratic Forces, saying, "I trust the words of Commander Mazloum Abdi. We are here today thanks to our forces, and we will return one day to our homes."

Displaced woman Kuli Abdo expressed her longing for her city, saying, "We want real guarantees for our return to Afrin. We miss our city and the olive trees. We want to return to our history and roots, and we trust our forces and our leader."

Meanwhile, displaced man Ahmed Rashou said the return must be supervised by the Internal Security Forces to guarantee the safety of the residents.

He added, "We will not accept returning until all mercenaries have left. We want our Kurdish identity and mother tongue to be recognized and to live safely under the protection of our forces."

In closing, he emphasized the urgent need to secure their return to Afrin with genuine and safe guarantees that ensure dignity, security, and stability for all residents.

ANHA