Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) Spokesperson Rûken Cemal has provided a powerful evaluation of the resistance against the escalating aggression from Turkish-backed mercenaries in Manbij (Minbîc) and other regions of northeast Syria. Speaking to Ronahî TV, Cemal underlined the resilience of SDF fighters and shared details of innovative tactics being deployed to counter the invading forces.
Cemal announced a significant achievement of the downing of a Turkish ANKA armed drone in Til Temir. “We have introduced new combat techniques against the Turkish army and its mercenaries,” she said. “The ANKA drone, which has long been used to target our regions, is a symbol of their brutal aggression. This is just the beginning of our efforts to counter these drones with advanced tactics.”
Manbij, known as a city of cultural and ethnic diversity, has faced relentless attacks since 26 November. Turkish-backed forces have targeted civilians with reconnaissance drones while carrying out heavy airstrikes. Cemal praised the courage and determination of the Manbij Military Council fighters: “Our fighters are crafting legends of resistance. Dozens of mercenaries have been killed, and vehicles used in the attacks have been destroyed. Manbij’s streets and villages are witnessing a historic stand against occupation.”
Turkish media is sharing footage of their militias at checkpoints outside of #Manbij, some of them wearing #ISIS patches, so you can see what kind of people they are. #DefendRojava pic.twitter.com/6fSIjzEPBf
— YPG & YPJ International (@YpgInt) December 9, 2024
Rûken Cemal refuted claims propagated by pro-government media that Manbij has fallen to Turkish-backed forces. “These reports are false. Manbij has not fallen, despite 13 days of intense assaults. Our fighters continue to resist with self-sacrificing spirit and unwavering commitment,” she asserted.
The clashes extend to areas like Qere Qozaq bridge and Tishreen dam located on Euphrates River, where the SDF has inflicted severe losses on the attackers. Cemal promised the people of the region that the resistance would prevail, stating: “The SDF fighters’ videos show the truth of our struggle. The resistance will endure, and these attacks will be crushed.”
As the conflict escalates, the resilience of SDF, and the YPJ fighters in particular, symbolises their unwavering commitment to defending the region and its people against aggression.
