YPJ fighters stress construction of  just and free future

Amira Muhammad and Samira al-Ahmad spoke about the critical phases they experienced during their service in the Units, highlighting women’s struggle against regressive ideologies and culminating in the defeat of ISIS mercenaries

Amira Muhammad, a native of Raqqa, stated that throughout history, women have carried the banner of resistance against injustice and have always been symbols of determination for a dignified life.

She explained that joining the Women’s Protection Units was the “optimal path” to defend the land and the people, affirming that Arab women have proven their capability to bear arms in defense of freedom.

She added that her experience in the Units brought about profound personal transformation, granting her new awareness and inner strength that enabled her to move from a woman constrained by imposed realities to an activist shaping the contours of a more just and free future.

Amira criticized certain traditions and regressive ideas that had long constrained women, highlighting that Arab women have successfully broken these barriers and participated fully in all fields of life, becoming essential partners in the pursuit of freedom and equality.

Defeating ISIS: Breaking Intellectual and Social Chains

Amira recounted the suffering of women during the ISIS occupation of Raqqa, when women faced oppression, exclusion, and attempts to erase their presence. She emphasized that the liberation of cities was not merely a military victory but a liberation from the chains of intellectual and social enslavement imposed by ISIS.

She added that the YPJ fighters became a symbol of resilience, to the extent that ISIS mercenaries feared confronting them and dreaded the celebratory cries of victory, which came to symbolize the breaking of fear and the dawn of a new era of freedom.

Amira concluded by stressing that her struggle is not personal but a message of hope for all women, a renewed commitment to the sacrifices of martyrs, and the construction of a secure future that guarantees justice and human dignity.

“Struggle Is a Renewed Pledge for Women’s Freedom”

Samira al-Ahmad, also from Raqqa, described the extent of injustice inflicted by ISIS on women, who were reduced to voiceless and suppressed tools, deprived of basic rights to education, work, and dignified living.

She affirmed that joining the revolutionary ranks was not a transient choice but a firm conviction that change can only be achieved through continuous struggle. Having witnessed atrocities firsthand, she was determined to confront extremist ideology and defend women’s dignity.

Samira noted that historically, Arab women have played a leading role in liberation struggles, proving capable of achieving victories alongside men, often taking the lead and generating hope.

Women: The Strength of Society and the Spirit of Resistance

She stated: “Through their struggle and steadfastness, women not only shape their own future but also serve as an inspiring model that lights the path to freedom for future generations.”

Samira highlighted that the suffering inflicted by ISIS was a profound wound and a stain on humanity, yet this adversity became a flame of resistance that strengthened women’s resolve for freedom.

She concluded that women are not merely half of society but its full strength—as mothers, educators, doctors, activists, and pioneers—and that no true progress can occur without their full participation.

a.k

ANHA