Since 8 January 2025, civilians in northern Syria have been gathering around and on top of the Tishreen (Tışrîn) Dam to prevent Turkish-backed forces from seizing this critical infrastructure. Despite freezing conditions and relentless attacks, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have successfully repelled assaults, while thousands of local residents have gathered in defiance, using traditional Kurdish dances and songs to express their resistance.
Turkey’s continued military operations in North and East Syria have resulted in the deaths of 24 civilians and over 200 injuries. Among those killed were three journalists and a theatre artist. According to an SDF report, Turkish warplanes bombed multiple villages, including Tina, Xeseq, and Girê Sêve, while more than 60 artillery shells struck various locations, causing extensive damage. The Tishreen Dam itself sustained material damage from a drone strike, and surveillance drones remain active over key areas, including Şiyûx and Ayn Îssa.
For over six weeks, thousands of civilians have gathered at the dam, determined to protect it from Turkish-backed forces. Many have been wounded in Turkish airstrikes and drone assaults, yet their resolve remains steadfast. Protesters have declared their commitment to defending their homeland, expressing no regrets for their actions and vowing to continue their resistance.
Human Rights Watch has condemned a drone strike on a Kurdish Red Crescent ambulance on 18 January as an apparent war crime. International human rights organisations and UN agencies have voiced concerns about the escalating violence, with UNICEF warning of severe humanitarian consequences due to damage inflicted on water infrastructure.
The conflict surrounding the Tishreen Dam is part of a broader Turkish strategy to weaken the SDF and the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES). The dam’s strategic military and economic importance has made it a focal point of ongoing clashes. Despite the heavy toll, both the SDF and local civilians remain resolute in their defence, ensuring that the dam does not fall into the hands of Turkish-backed forces.
