Masses gathered at the Martyr Hogir Hospital to join the final farewell to Mahir Çiya (Abdullah İlhan), a commander of the YPG (People’s Defense Units) who was martyred in the Operation Cizire Storm on June 17. Thousands joined the funeral procession to Martyr Xebat Derik Cemetery of Martyrs, carrying flags of YPG and SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) and chanting “Şehid namirin” (Martyrs are immortal).

YPG Commander Bedran Derik spoke at the ceremony in the cemetery, saying; “The Turkish state is an enemy of not only Kurdish people, but an enemy of all humanity. For this very reason, struggle against invasion must be enhanced.”

Derik promised to make the goals of the martyrs a reality by freeing Syria from mercenaries.

Speaking after, Cizire Canton Foreign Affairs Council Co-president Kenan Berekat pointed out the role of martyrs and the gains achieved in Rojava revolution. He underlined that resistance will continue until Afrin is liberated from Turkish state invasion.

Mentioning the Conference for the Liberation of Afrin that was held in Shehba Canton on Friday, Berekat said; “Afrin will be freed from invaders, we will take no step back. Liberation of Afrin is a step towards the resolution of the Syrian crisis.”

Speaking on behalf of Martyr Mahir Çiya’s family, Brusk Hesekê said he will follow in the footsteps of his brother.

After speeches, YPG commander was laid to rest.