The attacks on the Kurdish neighborhoods of Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafiyah in Aleppo, which began on January 6 by the so-called Syrian army and militias under Turkish command, have now spread to large parts of northern and eastern Syria. In addition to the cantons of Tabqa, Raqqa, and Deir ez-Zor, the south of Kobanê is also targeted now, in particular, the strategic Tishrin Dam on the Euphrates River. The attackers are using tanks, howitzers, and heavy artillery.
Kawa Qeremox, front commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) at the Tishrin Dam, told ANF that his units were still in their positions and were putting up fierce resistance. He rejected claims circulating on social media that the SDF had withdrawn from the dam. According to Qeremox, these claims are part of a targeted psychological warfare campaign. “We are at the dam and will resist until the end. These lies have no basis in truth. They are only intended to undermine the morale of our people.”
According to the commander, the attacks are clearly aimed at capturing the dam. But the resistance will not yield. “This dam belongs to our people. Our people have made great sacrifices for this place—the martyrs, the wounded, children who lost their lives here. That is why our people can rely on their strength. Just as we held the dam in previous waves of attacks, we will not give it up this time either.”
According to Qeremox, armored vehicles and tanks belonging to the Turkish army are stationed on the front lines. His response is clear: “Even if not only Turkey but the whole world is against us, we will not give up this dam. Victory is ours.”