As a result of attacks by the Turkish state and its proxies in December 2024, displaced Afrin residents were forced to leave their homes for the second time and to relocate in Qamishlo. In an effort to make their voices heard by the international community, they organized a march on Thursday.

The crowd gathered in front of the 12 Mart Martyrs Stadium and marched toward the building of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

Letter to the UN

The residents of Afrin read a letter exposing the crimes committed by the Turkish state against the people of Afrin and Shehba. The letter was also sent to the UN Secretary-General.

The letter said that a committee was established on behalf of the people of Afrin to appeal to international organizations to ensure a safe and dignified return.

The letter added that the Turkish state’s occupation of Afrin in 2018, its forced displacement of the local population, and its attempts to alter the demographic structure by settling proxies and their families represent a major obstacle to achieving a lasting resolution in Syria.

The crowd called on international organizations to take responsibility and take steps to ensure the safe and secure return of the people of Afrin to their lands.