The Tishreen Dam, situated on the Euphrates River in northern Syria, is facing the risk of a catastrophic collapse due to ongoing Turkish air and artillery strikes. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have issued a statement holding Turkey fully responsible for any serious repercussions affecting the dam.
In recent weeks, the region has witnessed escalating hostilities between Kurdish forces and Turkish-backed armed groups. Notably, over a thousand protesters from Kurdish areas gathered at the Tishreen Dam, demanding an end to Turkish airstrikes that endanger civilians and damage vital infrastructure. During the protest, Turkish drones and warplanes conducted airstrikes near the march route, resulting in civilian casualties.
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The SDF has been actively defending the dam and its surrounding areas, thwarting multiple attacks by Turkish occupation forces. Despite these efforts, the continuous bombardment has significantly increased the risk of the dam’s collapse, which would have devastating consequences for the region.
We Hold The Turkish Occupation Fully Responsible For Any Serious Repercussions Affecting The Tishreen Dam pic.twitter.com/wZeWF90Oxo
— Syrian Democratic Forces (@SDF_Syria) January 16, 2025
İlham Ahmed, the top diplomat of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) and head of its Foreign Relations Committee, also shared an urgent appeal on social media:
"Urgent appeal to international community. The Tishreen Dam is under intense Turkish jet fighters and drone attacks. The fear of collapsing is real. Local civilians are in danger. The ecological impact will affect the country for generations."
The situation highlights the fragile state of infrastructure in conflict zones and the dire need for de-escalation to prevent humanitarian and ecological disasters.
