A French delegation, comprising deputies and representatives from multiple political parties, concluded a fact-finding mission to North and East Syria (Rojava), held from 22 to 28 January. Their visit aimed to observe local conditions and express solidarity on the 10th anniversary of Kobani’s (Kobanê) liberation from ISIS.
The delegation, consisting of French MPs Danielle Simonnet and Thomas Porte, Paris City Council members Geneviève Garrigos and Jérôme Gleizes, and Dylan Boutiflat of the French Socialist Party, engaged with Kurdish representatives amid ongoing Turkish attacks and humanitarian challenges, visiting institutions across Qamishli (Qamişlo), Raqqa (Raqa), Kobani (Kobanê) and Hasakah (Hasekê). Meetings were held with key figures such as Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) Commander Mazloum Abdi, Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) Foreign Affairs Co-Chair İlham Ahmed, and the AANES’s co-chairs.
The delegation shared a statement on X, via delegate MP Simonnet, condemning ongoing attacks by Turkish-backed militias on critical infrastructure, including the Tishreen (Tişrîn) Dam. They described these actions as war crimes targeting civilian populations and vital resources such as water and electricity. The delegation also visited Al-Hol Camp, housing thousands of displaced people and families of former ISIS fighters, and called for the urgent repatriation of foreign nationals, particularly children.
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Highlighting the progressive social model of AANES, which promotes gender equality and coexistence among ethnic communities, the delegation urged France, the European Union, and NATO to take action. Recommendations included establishing a no-fly zone over North and East Syria, promoting a decentralised and united Syria, and removing the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) from the EU’s terrorist organisations list.
The delegation stressed the risks posed by the Turkish state’s influence over Syria's new government, particularly regarding women's rights and political freedoms, and expressed concerns about the rollback of gains made by AANES, reiterating the call for political solution for the region.
The delegation concluded with a strong appeal for peace, justice, and the establishment of an international tribunal to prosecute ISIS militants and Turkish-backed militia members accused of war crimes.
