Rohilat Afrin expressed her gratitude to the people of Southern Kurdistan for their support and delivered them a message on behalf of the General Command of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ).
At the beginning of her message, Rohilat Afrin welcomed the people of Southern Kurdistan and said:
“Nearly a month ago, a horrific attack took place in Western Kurdistan. A conspiracy was orchestrated to target the gains achieved and to launch a genocidal assault against the Kurdish people. However, thanks to the resistance of the people, this conspiracy was thwarted. In the face of such attacks, we as the Kurdish people, together with all components of society, are obliged to defend ourselves. Therefore, this resistance has been a defense of existence and dignity, and we will continue it here and everywhere to protect this land. This is our fundamental duty.
A new phase has begun in the world and in the Middle East. Under the leadership of Leader Abdullah Öcalan, the process of peace and democratic society has been launched. This has had an impact across the world; indeed, many have responded to this call and considered it a responsibility. Essentially, this call will also be a call for peace and democracy in Western Kurdistan. Without a dignified life and a free existence, we will not have the opportunity to live.
We have all seen in the South that Kurdistan is not divided into four parts — the Kurdish voice is one. This unified voice has become a major obstacle in the face of the attacks.”
She continued:
“In conclusion, we extend our deepest condolences to the family of comrade Ahmed Hamin and to all the martyrs. Those who have brought us to these days are our heroic martyrs. Those who defended our achievements are also martyrs, as is the resistance of our people.
Up to this day, even if this war has paused, it is thanks to the resistance of the people and the martyrs. The Kurdish people rose up with one voice and one goal in the face of these attacks and responded to them. The Kurdish people must have a place in the world. We salute the people of the South on behalf of all our forces. The enthusiasm of the marches in the South has given us the will and strength to resist.
This is not the first time uprisings and revolutions have erupted in the history of Kurdistan, but it is the first time the voice of the Kurdish people has united throughout all parts of Kurdistan. This gives us high morale to dedicate ourselves even more to struggle and resistance. This is a place of pride and honor. If we, the Kurdish people, are living this unity today, we will not accept death easily.
In the face of the enemy’s brutality against women’s bodies, and the attacks carried out using the most savage methods — including mutilation and the desecration of bodies — these were acts of extreme barbarity. The voices of women united against this. Women rose up across the world, and we, as the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), are determined to firmly confront attacks of this level.
Whatever happens, resist until the end. At the same time, we will struggle for a democratic solution so that this society may live in safety.”
She concluded:
“Once again, we salute all the people of the South with respect and appreciation. Let us stand together to achieve victory. Our promise to you is that we will prevail in this cause, and we will never accept surrender or occupation.”
