Civilians’ Defense Forces (Hezên Parastına Ciwakê, HPC) formed by people from ages 18 to 70 across Cizîr Canton began to actively participate in ‘Commander Rubar Qamişlo Initiative’ that began on May 6. Civilians from different genders and age groups stated that they were proud to be a part of this initiative and would sacrifice everything in order to defend their lands.

‘YPG IS PEOPLE’S HOPE OF FREEDOM’

Units such as Asayiş, self-defence forces and anti-terror teams have joined the ‘Commander Rubar Qamişlo Initiative’ in order to liberate Girê Spî from ISIS gangs. 55 years old Arab Yarop Lesas who joined the ranks of HPC said that ISIS’s biggest harm is its misrepresentation of Islam and added that the salvation of Arab and Kurdish peoples lies in the expansion of YPG. Mother of 4 children who had also joined the Kurdish Freedom Movement, 46 years old Nazdar Hesen called on all women to join the YPG-YPJ resistance and protect the gains of the initiative.

A PEOPLE’S ARMY IN NAME AND ESSENCE

With their colorful clothes that defy the militaristic uniformity of warzone areas, HPC forces formed by people from different sexes, age groups and occupations such as farmers, merchants and housewives are an army of people in name and essence. 60 years old Mahmut Musto stated that 12 of his relatives had also joined YPG-YPJ and are fighting to defend their land and people. Also an academy member, Musto shared his pride in joining the YPG-YPJ resistance.