Kobanê has been under siege for 14 days. There are severe shortages of medicine, fuel, and food. Despite ongoing power cuts and all other hardships, the people have been protecting their neighborhoods for days and continuing their resistance.
Doctors in Kobanê report that, due to the siege, some medicines cannot be supplied—especially drugs used to treat chronic illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes—and that cancer patients are unable to leave the city to receive treatment. There are also serious difficulties in obtaining baby formula. Because of power outages and fuel shortages, some sections of hospitals have been shut down.
Health officials stress that major health problems will arise if baby formula and medicines cannot be supplied.
A similar situation is being experienced in Kobanê’s markets and bazaars. Vegetables and basic food items have run out, and fuel used for heating and other needs cannot be obtained.
During the siege, which has put the lives of 600,000 people at risk, five children have died due to the cold weather.
The same danger continues to threaten the people of Kobanê, especially children.
Resisting the siege, the people of Kobanê are sending the message that resistance is the foundation of the new phase.