The Turkish military operation launched in the Kurdistan Region has been going on for more than 6 months. The Turkish army is reported to have used chemical weapons in many areas including Zap, Avaşin and Metina. 548 civilians were hospitalized and more than 30 HPG and YJA STAR fighters were killed after Turkey’s use of chemical weapons. While the use of chemical weapons has sparked off public reactions, the relevant organizations, institutions, and international forces have not stepped into action so far.

A SOLUTION MUST BE FOUND

Mihemed, a member of the High Council of the Halabja Association Against Chemical Weapons, spoke to RojNews. “Chemical weapons are produced by countries and these weapons are now being used against civilians in Kurdistan. A chemical attack was carried out in Behdinan on March 13, 1988. What’s happening now reminds us of that chemical attack. Why don't the countries that promote human rights speak out against the chemical weapons used in Behdinan? Over the years, we have demanded that these weapons be banned and not used. Therefore, a solution must be found,” Mihemed said, in response to international forces that have remained silent towards Turkey's use of chemical weapons in the region.

ARMS TRADE

Mihemed remarked that the use of banned weapons for the sake of political interests is a crime against humanity. “Chemical weapons also harm the environment and health of our country. Why are our lands subjected to chemical attacks by Turkey and the Baath regime? Regimes that ban these weapons are using them against our people. These weapons are bought from European countries and traded in the region. Turkey is using chemical weapons against the Kurds. Turkey does not want the Kurds to enjoy their rights. Turkey remains anti-Kurdish in all four parts of Kurdistan.”

CHEMICAL WEAPONS SHOULD BE BANNED

Mihemed pointed out that the use of chemical weapons has negative effects on public health and the environment and added that world countries have remained silent towards the use of chemical weapons in Kurdistan. “We hope that the massacres will be stopped. These weapons should not be allowed to be used. However, as far as we can see, international powers will not stop trading chemical weapons,” she said.

CALL FOR JOINT ACTION

Mihemed remarked that no country should do business with Turkey due to the chemical attacks and emphasized that the organizations against chemical weapons in the four parts of Kurdistan should come together and agree on a common struggle.