Foza Yûsif, a leading figure in the Democratic Union Party (PYD), has called for revolutionary self-defence and unity in North and East Syria (Rojava), warning that escalating Middle Eastern conflicts are deepening instability and serving the interests of occupying powers. Speaking to Ronahi newspaper on Sunday, Yûsif stressed that revolutionary popular resistance remains the cornerstone of protecting the region from external threats, including Turkey’s continued aggression.
“These wars only benefit occupying states,” Yûsif said, highlighting how conflicts involving Israel, Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian-linked forces in Syria exacerbate regional turmoil.
She specifically condemned Turkey’s actions, stating, “Turkey aims to deepen instability and occupy liberated areas such as Ras al-Ayn (Serêkaniyê), Tel Abyad (Girê Spî), and Afrin (Efrîn)”. According to Yûsif, these military campaigns are part of a broader effort to exploit regional chaos, alter demographics, and expand Turkish occupation.
“When our region is directly threatened, we defend ourselves through revolutionary popular resistance, prioritising the well-being of our people,” Yûsif added, emphasising the importance of collective action. She praised the efforts of local defence forces, such as the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), and People’s Defense Units (YPG), which embody the principles of revolutionary resistance rooted in the ideology of jailed Kurdish leader Abdullah Öcalan.
Rooted in Öcalan’s rose theory and revolutionary popular resistance, this ideology prioritises self-defence and collective action. It has shaped the governance and defence structures in Rojava, now officially known as the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES). These principles enabled the Kurdish-led administration to resist threats from regional and international forces, including their critical role in defeating ISIS and countering Turkish offensives.
Abdullah Öcalan explains self defence with an analogy between the workings of nature and human societies with the example of a rose and questions the values of love in capitalist societies.https://t.co/lq2CnlRrZJ pic.twitter.com/aPpRmWFcoA
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Yûsif also urged the international community to prioritise political solutions, calling on the Syrian regime to engage in meaningful dialogue with the Autonomous Administration. “Our region stands ready for peace talks, but readiness alone is not enough; there must be sincere commitment from all sides,” she added.
Geopolitical tensions have left North and East Syria in a precarious position, with Turkey’s actions, Iranian influence, and international power plays threatening the region’s autonomy. Despite these challenges, Yûsif remains steadfast in her call for revolutionary defence and solidarity. Her message underscores the need for unity and preparation against future threats to safeguard the region’s coexistence and stability.
