Kobani commemorates victims of June 25 ISIS attack

Every year on June 25, the city of Kobani and the village of Barkh Botan, located south of the city, commemorate the victims of the ISIS attack carried out in 2015, which is considered one of the deadliest attacks witnessed in the region during the years of the Syrian war.

In the early hours of June 25, 2015, Kobani and Barkh Botan came under attack by ISIS militants. The assault resulted in the deaths and injuries of hundreds of civilians, including women and children, after militants infiltrated the city from several directions and launched attacks targeting residential neighborhoods and civilian areas.

At the time, the People’s Protection Units (YPG) and Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) were engaged in operations to liberate the countryside around Kobani from ISIS mercenaries.

According to local testimonies and field reports issued at the time, the militants began opening fire on civilians in several neighborhoods and marketplaces, causing dozens of casualties during the first hours of the attack before clashes spread to different parts of the city and its surroundings.

The village of Barkh Botan also witnessed simultaneous attacks and infiltration attempts. However, the militants encountered resistance from local residents, the Internal Security Forces (Asayish), and Community Protection Units, leading to clashes that lasted for several hours.

As the attack expanded, the YPG, YPJ, and the Internal Security Forces (Asayish) engaged in fierce battles against ISIS militants inside the city and on its outskirts. The operations continued for several days before full control of Kobani was restored and ISIS militants were expelled from the area.

According to statements issued by local authorities in Kobani in July 2015, the number of civilian victims reached approximately 233 killed, in addition to more than 270 wounded. Several fighters involved in repelling the attack also lost their lives.

Residents of Kobani and Barkh Botan commemorate the victims annually through memorial ceremonies and events. Memorials have also been established at several locations in honor of those who lost their lives during the attack and the defense of the city.

This anniversary comes amid ongoing security challenges facing the region and continued attempts to undermine the stability of Kobani and its surroundings. Residents emphasize that remembering the June 25 massacre is not only about honoring the victims but also serves as a reminder of the necessity of safeguarding the city’s security, preserving the stability achieved after years of struggle and sacrifice, and preventing the recurrence of the tragedies experienced during the years of war.

ANHA