‘A nation defends its existence’: Protests spread across Kurdistan and abroad in support of Rojava Kurds

SULAYMANIYAH — Large protests continue across cities in the Kurdistan Region and abroad in support of Kurds in Rojava, northeastern Syria, following assaults against them by the Syrian regime forces and allied armed groups.

Demonstrators from various parts of Kurdistan, Europe, and the United States have taken to the streets, calling for recognition of Kurdish rights and urging international action. Participants view the recent assaults as an existential threat to Kurdish existence and identity.

In Sulaymaniyah, tens of thousands of people gathered on Saturday, filling the streets with diverse groups including artists and actors. Among them was Nermin Kawani, a well-known actor in the Kurdistan Region, who joined fellow performers in the demonstration. Speaking to 964media, she said, “Through our braids, we defeat the enemy.” The act references a widely circulated video showing a pro-government Syrian militant holding up a braid cut from the hair of a slain Kurdish woman.

Kawani addressed Kurdish women in Rojava with a message of solidarity: “You are part of us. You are the western part of the great Kurdistan. We are all with you. Do not give up, and remain strong as always. I express my sympathy for the oppression happening to the Kurdish people in Rojava and all four parts of Kurdistan.”

Actor Ahmad Jola also took part in the public demonstration in Sulaymaniyah in support of Rojava. Speaking to 964media, he said what drove him to the streets was to once again show support for the Kurds of Rojava.

He added, “The painful scenes from Rojava are what brought me here. Not only artists, but all segments of society should take to the streets, express their discontent, and reaffirm their support for Western Kurdistan.”

Jola said, “Kurds will never fall.” He also expressed hope to reflect the struggle and suffering of Rojava in future artistic works.

Actor Mahir Hassan also joined the demonstrations in support of Rojava. In an emotional statement to 964media, Hassan said, “Powerful states have no morals. They say, ‘If you have oil and money, bring it, then I will defend you.’ We do not abandon even our dogs, but they abandon their honor, dignity, and values.”

Hassan also emphasized the unity of the Kurdish people: “Our politicians, like our people, must be united and with one voice.” He added, “We Kurds have always supported one another. Those who do not support our people are the ones who lie when they speak of human rights.”

“We are a nation that defends its existence. We are a nation that wants peace. We defend our culture and our language,” he said.

Daily demonstrations have been ongoing for nearly a week in main cities including Erbil, Duhok, Kirkuk, Halabja and Sulaymaniyah, with gatherings in various neighborhoods. Protesters have also launched aid campaigns for Rojava in several locations.

Supporters continue to reaffirm their backing of Rojava and the resistance in that region, describing it as an inseparable part of Kurdistan.

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces have accused Syrian government forces and allied Islamist factions of committing war crimes during the offensive, including beheadings, mutilation and other abuses against Kurdish fighters and civilians.