As the Kurds mark ten years since breaking ISIS's siege in Kobane, they grapple with ongoing threats from Turkish forces and question their future in a politically shifting Syria. The potential for renewed violence looms, while Kurdish leaders call for recognition of their rights.
Uncertain Futures: Kurdish Resilience Amidst Ongoing Turmoil in Syria
Uncertain Futures: Kurdish Resilience Amidst Ongoing Turmoil in Syria
Despite celebrating a decade of victories against ISIS, Syria's Kurds face renewed threats from Turkey and the complexities of a reshaped Syrian leadership.
In January, the Kurdish community in Kobane commemorated ten years since they successfully resisted the siege by ISIS, yet the prospects for their future remain precarious. To understand the current situation in north-east Syria, one must cross the fragile floating bridge over the Tigris River, entering Kurdish-controlled Rojava. This self-declared autonomous region, in existence since 2012, has been under the protection of Kurdish-led forces amidst the backdrop of a prolonged civil war and ongoing conflict with Turkey.
The engagement against ISIS defined the region's recent history. In 2014, ISIS's advance came to a halt at the gates of Kobane, where Kurdish fighters, supported by a U.S.-led coalition, ultimately lifted the siege in early 2015. This January, local citizens gathered to celebrate the anniversary, yet the commemoration was tinged with sorrow for the lives lost in the battle. Amidst celebrations, poignant reminders of tragedy remained, such as families lighting candles for fallen loved ones.
Current tensions, however, arise from Turkey's military operations against the Kurdish forces known as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkey considers the SDF, particularly its primary group, the People's Protection Units (YPG), to be affiliated with the PKK, a group labeled as terrorists by Ankara. The recent offensive by Turkish-backed forces targets SDF areas near Kobane; a Kurdish military commander warned of pre-emptive measures, including the construction of tunnels beneath the city.
As power outages ensue due to intensified bombings, many civilians face dangers not only from military operations but also from drone strikes aimed at SDF positions. Reports of civilian casualties have emerged, prompting condemnation from rights organizations. The situation has also drawn criticism from the Turkish government, which asserts that the SDF endangers civilians by employing them as "human shields."
Domestically, Syria's political landscape has shifted with the rise of interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa, whose faction previously deposed Bashar al-Assad. Although Sharaa promises an inclusive government, any inclusion of Kurdish factions complicates relations with Turkey. Kurdish authorities have been actively excluded from negotiations regarding Syria's future.
In a conversation with SDF commander Gen Mazloum Abdi, he confirmed contact with Sharaa but noted the absence of substantial agreements. He reiterated the ongoing warfare mindset: "In reality, we are still at war with Turkey and its proxies," he asserted, emphasizing potential ramifications if international military support wanes.
Among the complexities is the role of women who fought against ISIS through the YPJ, which now demands assurances for their rights in any emerging governance structure. YPJ spokesperson Roksana Mohamed articulated concerns over the lack of female representation in leadership, asserting, “If our rights are not respected, how can we be expected to lay down our arms?"
While some hold hope for a stable future in Syria, the Kurdish community remains skeptical. The possibility of recognition and partnership in a new Syria hangs in the balance, leaving the Kurds braced for continued struggles in defending their identity and autonomy.
The engagement against ISIS defined the region's recent history. In 2014, ISIS's advance came to a halt at the gates of Kobane, where Kurdish fighters, supported by a U.S.-led coalition, ultimately lifted the siege in early 2015. This January, local citizens gathered to celebrate the anniversary, yet the commemoration was tinged with sorrow for the lives lost in the battle. Amidst celebrations, poignant reminders of tragedy remained, such as families lighting candles for fallen loved ones.
Current tensions, however, arise from Turkey's military operations against the Kurdish forces known as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). Turkey considers the SDF, particularly its primary group, the People's Protection Units (YPG), to be affiliated with the PKK, a group labeled as terrorists by Ankara. The recent offensive by Turkish-backed forces targets SDF areas near Kobane; a Kurdish military commander warned of pre-emptive measures, including the construction of tunnels beneath the city.
As power outages ensue due to intensified bombings, many civilians face dangers not only from military operations but also from drone strikes aimed at SDF positions. Reports of civilian casualties have emerged, prompting condemnation from rights organizations. The situation has also drawn criticism from the Turkish government, which asserts that the SDF endangers civilians by employing them as "human shields."
Domestically, Syria's political landscape has shifted with the rise of interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa, whose faction previously deposed Bashar al-Assad. Although Sharaa promises an inclusive government, any inclusion of Kurdish factions complicates relations with Turkey. Kurdish authorities have been actively excluded from negotiations regarding Syria's future.
In a conversation with SDF commander Gen Mazloum Abdi, he confirmed contact with Sharaa but noted the absence of substantial agreements. He reiterated the ongoing warfare mindset: "In reality, we are still at war with Turkey and its proxies," he asserted, emphasizing potential ramifications if international military support wanes.
Among the complexities is the role of women who fought against ISIS through the YPJ, which now demands assurances for their rights in any emerging governance structure. YPJ spokesperson Roksana Mohamed articulated concerns over the lack of female representation in leadership, asserting, “If our rights are not respected, how can we be expected to lay down our arms?"
While some hold hope for a stable future in Syria, the Kurdish community remains skeptical. The possibility of recognition and partnership in a new Syria hangs in the balance, leaving the Kurds braced for continued struggles in defending their identity and autonomy.
