The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced yesterday evening that the ceasefire had been extended by 15 days. Yet, the heavy siege of Kobanê continues. The electricity, water, and fuel crisis persists, severe cold and snowfall prevail, and basic necessities such as baby food are hardly available.
The institutions of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES) are working intensively to accommodate tens of thousands of displaced families. Many of the people displaced from Afrin, Shehba, Raqqa, Tabqa, Deir ez-Zor, and Shaddadi have found refuge in the canton of Cizîrê. Due to the high number of IDPs, the relevant committees are having difficulty meeting their needs. The responsible institutions have therefore issued an urgent call for help.
Comprehensive mobilization
In addition, the region’s population has responded to the SDF’s call for mobilization and has begun to organize the defense of their neighborhoods and villages by setting up guard posts everywhere and arming themselves. They are also supported by hundreds of young people who have come to Rojava from Bashur (South Kurdistan) and Rojhilat (East Kurdistan) to join the resistance.
Kurds in Europe continue to support Rojava with numerous campaigns and public protests. In addition, a large group has set out on the “People’s Caravan to Defend Humanity” to join the defense of Kobanê on the ground.
Although the ceasefire has been extended, the threat of attacks remains. Mercenary forces affiliated with HTS have broken the ceasefire before. In light of this dire situation, the parties in Rojava have called on all Kurds worldwide to stand up for Rojava.