Members of the Kurdish diaspora and Cypriots rallied in Nicosia on Thursday, vehemently condemning the ongoing attacks on the Kurdish region of Rojava in northeastern Syria and calling on Cyprus to take decisive political action.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
The demonstration commenced outside the Interior Ministry, making its way past the EU government office on Vyronos Avenue before culminating at the House of Representatives. Protesters passionately chanted slogans such as “Woman, life, freedom,” “Terrorist Jolani,” referencing the former Al Nusra emir, and “Long live the freedom of Rojava,” highlighting their growing alarm over the escalating violence in northern and eastern Syria.
A Kurdish delegation, headed by Yasin Tarbous, leader of the Democratic Union Party’s (PYD) local branch in Cyprus, was received at the EU office complex. Demonstrators urged for international condemnation of what they labelled as ‘war crimes’ committed by militias aligned with Syria’s transitional authorities. They demanded an end to external support that perpetuates the conflict.
The protest saw participation from Ecologist politician Oz Karahan and members of the Ecologists – Citizens’ Cooperation party, the only Cypriot political party present at the event. Carrying banners that expressed solidarity with Rojava and Kurdistan, the attendees conveyed a unified message of support.
A similar protest occurred the previous evening outside the Limassol municipal office, reflecting a broader concern within the Kurdish community regarding the attacks, which they argue target not just territory but a political and social model founded on gender equality, local democracy, and coexistence.
In a statement, the protesters asserted, “What is happening in northern and eastern Syria is an attack on freedom, women’s achievements, and the will of people to live democratically.” Accusations were directed at Turkish-backed militias for conducting attacks against civilians, forced displacements, and executions, with many describing these actions as blatant war crimes.
Alarmingly, demonstrators warned of a potential renewed siege of Kobani, despite a ceasefire agreement between the Syrian Democratic Forces and the Syrian Transitional Government. They appealed directly to President Nikos Christodoulides, who currently holds the EU Council presidency, urging him to assume political responsibility to halt the massacres, mobilise international public opinion, and acknowledge the legitimate resistance of the Kurdish people.
Further complicating matters, concern was raised over reports of two fighters from the Women’s Defence Units being abducted in the Deir ez-Zor area by armed groups associated with Syria’s transitional authorities. Kurdish organisations and women’s rights groups have called for their immediate release and accountability from those responsible.
The Cypriot foreign ministry has stated it is closely monitoring developments, emphasising that the full implementation of the ceasefire is crucial for Syria’s unity, stability, and the protection of Kurdish rights.
