Guerrillas celebrate Newroz in the mountains of Kurdistan as a festival of resistance and freedom. HPG commander Rizgar Êrsî took part in one of the celebrations in the Medya Defense Zones. Êrsî is a member of the command council of the People's Defense Forces (HPG) and, after a military ceremony, gave a speech in which he addressed the history of Newroz and its significance today.

Êrsî further stated that the guerrilla struggle will continue: "A very important year has begun for us. Our people are fighting for the release of Rêber Apo [Abdullah Öcalan] and this struggle will be expanded this year. The guerrillas have developed in all military fields and will continue to play their role against the fascist Turkish state. We will be worthy of Rêber Apo, our martyrs, the families of the martyrs and our people. For this we will work and fight 24 hours a day with promising methods. In this spirit, on behalf of the HPG Command, I wish everyone a happy Newroz."

After the speech, a big fire was lit and dancing took place.

Also in Xakurke, fighters of YJA Star (Free Women’s Troops) and HPG celebrated Newroz. A military ceremony was held in the snow, followed by dancing around a fire.