In a strong condemnation of Turkish military actions in northern Syria, Evîn Cuma, co-director at the Syrian Observatory For Human Rights (SOHR), has called on international bodies to take immediate action. Cuma described recent drone attacks on civilian areas as “war crimes”, highlighting the deliberate targeting of women, children, and the elderly.
Speaking to Hawar News Agency (ANHA), Cuma referenced the 8 December drone strike on Misteriha village near Ain Issa, where 12 civilians, including women and children, were killed. “This is not an isolated incident,” she said. “Turkey has repeatedly violated international laws, targeting not only civilians but also essential infrastructure and public services to force populations to flee.”
Related Stories
Turkey kills 13 civilians, including 6 children in Syria’s Ain Issa
Kurdish Red Crescent launches emergency aid for displaced people in northern Syria
Cuma cited past atrocities in Afin (Efrîn), Ras al-Ayn (Serê Kaniyê), and Tel Abyad (Girê Spî), stating that Turkey’s actions consistently breach international humanitarian law and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. She emphasised that targeting civilians constitutes a war crime under international law.
The SOHR director further urged the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on Syria to document these violations and ensure accountability. She called on the UN Security Council to exert pressure on Turkey to cease its attacks and respect Syria’s sovereignty.
Cuma’s statements come amid heightened international scrutiny of Turkey’s actions in the region, which have drawn criticism for their devastating impact on local communities.
