Jazira Intellectuals’ Union calls for accountability over Hasakah events

Hasakah witnessed acts of vandalism targeting public and private property during a demonstration by residents of the Gweiran neighborhood yesterday. The protest featured sectarian and inflammatory slogans, prompting the Internal Security Forces to intervene and disperse the demonstrators with tear gas to prevent any actions that could threaten civil peace in the city.

In this context, the Jazira Intellectuals’ Union issued a statement to the public today, read by union member Siba Hussein.

The statement said Hasakah Governorate is facing serious challenges amid escalating incitement, rumors and attempts to stir discord among its communities. It stressed that Kurds, Arabs, Syriac-Assyrians and other communities share a common homeland and destiny, rejecting any attempt to turn differences into hostility.

The statement affirmed that peaceful protest is a legitimate right when used to express demands related to living conditions, the economy and public services. However, it rejected the use of demonstrations to promote chauvinistic, racist or inflammatory slogans targeting the Kurdish community or any other community, as well as insults directed at cultural symbols and traditions. It stressed that freedom of expression does not mean promoting hatred, and that rejecting insults does not justify confrontation.

The statement condemned the spread of rumors, decontextualized video clips, accusations of disloyalty and sweeping generalizations. It called on the media and social media platforms to verify information before publishing it and avoid content that provokes public sentiment. It also urged social, religious and political figures, as well as tribal elders, to help calm tensions and reject incitement.

The Union called on the relevant authorities to conduct transparent investigations into any incidents, hold those responsible accountable, protect civilians and prevent impunity. It also stressed the need to address economic hardships and shortcomings in public services, describing these measures as essential to safeguarding stability.

The statement warned of risks threatening the Kurdish people’s historic presence and rights. It called on all communities in Hasakah Governorate to exercise restraint and avoid being drawn into an armed conflict that would serve the enemies of the Kurdish people.

It also urged the transitional government and the governorate authorities to intervene immediately to end the unrest and calm tensions on the streets. In addition, it called for a political process leading to a new constitution that defines the state’s rights and fundamental principles while guaranteeing equality and recognition of diversity.

The statement further called for peaceful, civilian Kurdish solidarity in Syria and the diaspora to support legitimate rights, reject racism and strengthen unity.

The Union concluded by urging intellectuals and writers to fulfill their role in building bridges between all parties and helping curb hate speech. It stressed that Hasakah belongs to all its people and that coexistence is a daily responsibility.

A-H 

ANHA