Rohilat Efrîn, Member of the YPJ (Women’s Defense Units) General Command, addressed the Kurdish people in Europe in a video message and called for increased support. In particular, she appealed to Kurdish youths and women to take a clear stand in support of Rojava.
“All Kurdish youths and women should speak with one voice. With their determination, they should direct their will toward Rojava. Today is the day of dignity, freedom, and defense of our country,” Efrîn said in a message released on Friday.
The YPJ Commander expressly welcomed the demonstrations and solidarity actions of the Kurdish community in Europe and emphasized that the people in Rojava did not feel alone thanks to the worldwide expressions of support. At the same time, she warned against targeted attempts at disruption by the state or political actors: “We call on our people to remain vigilant against provocations during the demonstrations,” Efrîn concluded.
The message comes against the backdrop of a broad-based attack on autonomous administration areas in northeast Syria. The so-called Syrian transitional government, supported by Turkey, is conducting a campaign of conquest together with Islamist militias of all stripes. Kobanê is currently particularly affected, under siege on all four sides.