Zekak Ermenak Kosiryan had to leave his hometown – Tabqa- right before Islamic State gangs’ invasion. And now he is one of the first Armenians to return to the homeland.

Tabqa was named “Little Syria” because of its ethnic and cultural diversity. The city was home to a notable Armenian, Assyrian, Ezidi, İsmaili and Shia population before ISIS. After ISIS invasion only Sunni Arab population left in Tabqa. The others had no choice but escape. Those who couldn’t were killed by the IS gangs.

The city was liberated on May 10 and a new city administration was appointed on May 15. Most Muslims returned to the war torn city after successful rebuilding efforts.

Zekar Ermenal Kosiryan is now one of the first Armenians who returned to Tabqa. He is known as Ebu Simon in the city. He was welcomed by his friends and most importantly city’s administration.

Kosiryan is now rebuilding his life in Tabqa, like the city is rebuilding itself. And he is calling other Armenians to return to the city.