The Press Centre of the People's Defence Forces (HPG) released a statement providing information about the recent attacks by the Turkish army in the guerrilla-held Medya Defense Zones in southern Kurdistan (northern Iraq). According to the statement, the Turkish army carried out 7 bombardments with phosphorus-enriched shells against the guerrilla positions near the village of Sida on March 10.

On the other hand, the area of Gundê Kanîsarkê in Garê and the area of Girê Çarçêl in Metina were shelled 4 times by Turkish fighter jets on March 9 and 10.

HPG also reported that the guerrilla positions in Çemço and Sîda, as well as the Girê Cûdî Resistance Area, were shelled 19 times with attack helicopters, howitzers, tanks and heavy weapons on March 10.

Çemço and Sida belong to the Sheladize sub-district near the town of Amadiya in Duhok governorate and have been the focus of the occupation forces since the partial withdrawal of the Turkish army from the Zap region at the end of last year.

Turkey's attacks continue despite a ceasefire announced by the Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK). The decision was taken after the devastating earthquake disaster in the Turkish-Syrian border area on 6 February. The Kurdish guerrillas, which include the HPG and the YJA Star (Free Women's Troops), are implementing the call for a cessation of all hostilities and are in a defensive position.

In a statement on February 9, the Kurdistan Communities Union (KCK), an umbrella organization of the Kurdish freedom movement of which the PKK (Kurdistan Workers Party) is also a member, called for a halt of military actions in Turkey, in metropolises and cities. “It is necessary to prevent the people from experiencing even more suffering in this affliction”, said Cemil Bayık, co-chairman of the executive council of the KCK.

The Central Headquarters of the People's Defence Forces (HSM) expressed support for the KCK's call and said on February 11 that the guerrillas were ready to do their part to alleviate the suffering of people.