Remembering Abu Leyla: Legendary commander who died for liberation of Manbij
🕊️Manbij (Minbic), a city liberated from ISIS at great cost, is under attack once again by Turkish-backed mercenaries.
Among the heroes who gave their lives was SDF Commander Abu Leyla, a symbol… pic.twitter.com/1JhvGAm0Tz
— MedyaNews (@1MedyaNews) December 9, 2024
As the intense battle for the northern Syrian city of Manbij (Minbic) unfolds, it is an important time to remember legendary Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commander Abu Leyla, who played a pivotal role in liberating the city from ISIS in 2016. Known for his courage, humanity and commitment to unity, Abu Leyla’s life and sacrifice continue to inspire.
Born as Faisal Saddoun in Kobani (Kobanê), Abu Leyla grew up in Manbij, embodying the multicultural essence of the region. He broke with patriarchal traditions by taking the name “Abu Leyla” (Arabic: Father of Leyla) in honour of his daughter. “I am proud to be Leyla’s father,” he declared, rejecting the traditional emphasis on male lineage. His choice reflects the spirit of the Rojava Revolution, in which Kurds in Syria declared autonomy from the government, embracing grassroots democracy based on gender equality and social justice.
Abu Leyla etched his name into history with his pivotal role in the 2014 battle for Kobani, a critical turning point in the war against ISIS. Footage from that time shows him saving the life of a trapped member of ISIS, a group notorious for its brutality. When asked why he had rescued an enemy fighter, Abu Leyla famously replied: “We stand for humanity, unlike ISIS, which spreads death wherever it goes.” This act in the midst of conflict brought him international fame and demonstrated his commitment to the principles of humanity and peace.
Footage from the time often shows him smiling on the front lines, inspiring those around him with his optimism amid the chaos. He was also remembered for his love of music, often singing songs to his comrades during lulls in the fighting. In both his actions and his demeanour, Abu Leyla was a person full of joy and love – for people, for his comrades, and for the dream of a free Syria.
Abu Leyla was known for his hands-on approach, often fortifying positions and laying mines where he anticipated enemy infiltration. Journalist Ersin Çaksu recalled: “Abu Leyla’s hands always had dirt on them. When he wasn’t fighting, he was working tirelessly to prepare the defences”. His comrades often heard radio calls urging him to return to safety: “Heval (Kurdish: friend/comrade) Faysal, return to your post!” and “Heval Feysal, you’ve exhausted our ammunition!”
Tragically, Abu Leyla lost his life during the operation to liberate Manbij on 5 June 2016. He was fatally shot by an ISIS sniper. His death sent waves of grief through Kurdish communities and beyond. Brett McGurk, then the US special envoy for the global coalition to defeat ISIS, paid tribute, tweeting: “Praying with #FSA Commander #AbuLeyla who lost his life in the ongoing operations to liberate his hometown of #Manbij from #ISIL terrorists”.
In honour of his sacrifice, the operation to liberate Manbij was renamed ‘Operation Martyr and Commander Faysal Abu Leyla’. His legacy continues to inspire those fighting for a free and democratic Syria.
Poignantly, Abu Leyla wrote a letter to his daughter during the battle of Kobani. He messaged: “Our path is clear. It is our duty to defend and persevere. We will fight for you and children like you. We will shield our chests from all dangers so that children of this land can live in a better and free future. So that when you grow up, you won’t say that I didn’t do anything for us. Leyla, I miss you dearly. You will be proud of your father, whether I am alive or martyred.”
These words reflect his deep commitment to humanity and his unwavering dedication to ensuring a better future for generations to come, including his beloved daughter Leyla.
Abu Leyla’s legacy is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the struggle for freedom and justice among all the peoples of Syria.
