Tirbespiyê residents: our cities' names must be preserved

Public opposition continues to grow against attempts to change the names of cities and towns in North and East Syria. Several residents of Tirbespiyê reaffirmed their rejection of any measures affecting the historical names of cities, considering these names an essential part of the region's identity and history, and emphasizing that preserving them is a responsibility shared by everyone.

This comes amid controversy sparked by attempts to rename several cities, including changing Kobani's name to "Ayn al-Arab" a move that has been met with widespread public discontent, particularly among Kurds, who have stressed the need to respect the distinct identity of all communities and guarantee every people's right to identify themselves through their own language and culture.

In this context, resident Muntaha Mahmoud said that previous policies targeting the region, including the "Arab Belt" project, had left profound effects on society, noting that attempts to change the names of cities represent a continuation of those policies.

She added that the cities and regions were protected thanks to the sacrifices of the fighters and martyrs, emphasizing that the Kurdish language should enjoy its rightful status across all fields and that Kurds should play a fundamental role in drafting Syria's new constitution.

For his part, Mohammed Al-Mayar stated that the Tirbespiyê region has long been known for its ethnic diversity and the coexistence of its various communities. He noted that each component has its own cultural and social identity that deserves respect, and that changing the names of cities does not serve this spirit of coexistence.

He added that respecting the cultures of all communities and preserving the unique character of each region are fundamental to building a future based on mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence.

Meanwhile, Amina Hassan said that the regions of Rojava have witnessed tremendous sacrifices over the past years, and that the stability and organization achieved today are the result of the struggle of the region's people and the fighters who defended it.

She stressed that the names of cities and towns are part of the region's history and identity, concluding: "Our cities will remain known by their Kurdish names, and we will never accept changing them. We will continue to protect the achievements secured through the sacrifices of the martyrs."

ANHA