In a statement on the 13th anniversary of the Rojava Revolution, the General Command of the People’s Defense Units (YPG) reaffirmed their commitment to the cause of freedom and justice and vowed that their forces will continue their resistance against all threats and dangers facing the people and the revolution—with determination, and without retreat.
The YPG statement reads as follows:
“On this momentous occasion, the General Command of the YPG proudly joins all the peoples of Northern and Eastern Syria, the families of our fallen martyrs, and friends around the world in commemorating the 13th anniversary of the Rojava Revolution. July 19 stands as more than a date—it is a symbol of resistance and freedom that ushered in a new phase in the history of Kurdistan, Syria, and the broader Middle East.
We respectfully honor the martyrs who gave their lives to defend this revolution. The resistance of our people—alongside the YPG and YPJ—against ISIS and occupation forces became an enduring example of heroism. Their stand not only protected the region, but also left a lasting impact on global security.
Since 2012, the Rojava Revolution has taken on an internationalist character, fueled by tens of thousands of revolutionaries from all parts of Kurdistan, the peoples of Syria, and freedom fighters from across the world. It demonstrated that the will of the people can rise against tyranny. Led by the initiative of women and youth, the revolution has become a beacon of hope for all communities in the region. Today, Rojava is recognized globally as a model of democratic governance built on equality, coexistence, and peace. We have proven that solidarity among the peoples of the Middle East is not only possible—it is essential.
As we mark this anniversary, we recognize that our region—particularly Syria—continues to pass through a phase of volatility and conflict. Once again, we emphasize that no form of governance or political initiative that fails to respect the diversity and pluralism of this region can bring a successful end to Syria’s 14-year-long civil war. The Syrian crisis, fueled by authoritarianism and a refusal to recognize pluralism, will only deepen further if new governing forces continue down the same path of denial and exclusion.
On the 13th anniversary of our revolution, we reaffirm our commitment to the cause of freedom and justice. Our forces will continue their resistance against all threats and dangers facing our people and this revolution—with determination, and without retreat.”