Thousands gather in Qamishli to honour fallen fighters and civilian victims of Euphrates Basin resistance
🕊️ In Qamishli (Qamişlo), thousands united to honour six martyrs who gave their lives resisting aggression. Their sacrifices inspire continued defiance. #Qamishlo #YPJ… pic.twitter.com/nG1n0ogwJl
— MedyaNews (@medyanews_) December 27, 2024
The people of Qamishli (Qamişlo) held a massive funeral ceremony for six martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the fight against Turkish-backed mercenary groups and continued aggression in North and East Syria. Five of the martyrs were SDF fighters—Baran Qamishlo, Besam Ehmed, Şêrzad Qamishlo, Agirî Qamishlo, and Çiyarûs—while the sixth, civilian Yaşar Îbrahîm, fell victim to attacks in Shehba (Şehba).
Thousands mourn in Qamishli
The ceremony, attended by thousands, included families of the martyrs, representatives of civil society, and members of the Democratic Union Party (PYD). Mourners gathered at the Şehîd Delîl Sarûxan Martyrs’ Cemetery, chanting slogans of unity and resistance.
Cewahir Osman, representing the Qamishli Martyrs’ Families Council, declared, “Today, we bury our martyrs in our hearts and minds. Their blood will not go unavenged, and we will continue their fight for freedom.”
A legacy of defiance
Nûrî Mehmûd, speaking on behalf of the military forces, emphasised the significance of the martyrs’ sacrifices. “These six patriots are a testament to the resilience of North and East Syria. The Turkish state aims to destroy our people and their values, but we remain steadfast. The Autonomous Administration is the future for all Syrians.”
Sheikh Mûrshid El Xiznewî also addressed the mourners, stating, “Martyrdom is the pinnacle of existence. Our martyrs are a source of strength and hope. We must stand united behind the SDF, the embodiment of our dignity and hope.”
The martyrdom of Ronahi Yekta
The ceremony included a tribute to YPJ Commander Ronahi Yekta, who was martyred during an intense battle at Tishreen Dam on 25 December. Known for her leadership and revolutionary spirit, Ronahi played a pivotal role in resisting Turkish-backed mercenaries.
🔴YPG & YPJ thwarted a massive offensive by Turkish-backed militias targeting the Tishreen Dam. Despite direct drone strikes on the dam, Kurdish forces showed extraordinary bravery, saving strategic infrastructure and securing victory.
💡 Key highlights:
✅ 210 mercenary… pic.twitter.com/BQt3sohIV3— MedyaNews (@medyanews_) December 15, 2024
YPJ Commander Ronahi Yekta, who was martyred during an intense battle at Tishrin Dam on 25 December. She and her two comrades were interviewed and covered in Meyda News pages on 9 December.
A statement from the YPJ General Command praised her courage: “Comrade Ronahi was a beacon of hope and determination. Her sacrifices remind us that the fight for freedom and equality will prevail. We pledge to carry her legacy forward.”
Enduring resistance
The event concluded with the presentation of martyrdom certificates to the families, followed by a burial amidst chants and traditional zılgıts. The people of Qamishli vowed to protect the legacy of their martyrs, continuing the fight for a democratic and free North and East Syria.
As of today, the Rojava Information Centre reports that 249 people have been killed in Turkish-backed attacks since 29 November, including 169 military personnel, 11 Asayish, and 69 civilians.
