Melek Mahmud, Social Defense Forces (HPC) member, said that she attaches importance to organization and education against the special war, and added that everyone who takes her place in HPC regards YPJ-YPG as their own children.

Melek Mahmud, from Qamishlo, is one of those who went to Serêkaniyê in 2017 and sided with the YPJ-YPG against the Turkish state's invasion of Serêkaniyê in 2019. She described that process as follows: “I was ready for the battle of Serêkaniyê. I was helping out in the front. Of course, the people helped. HPC played an important role in the Serêkaniyê process. The people had declared mobilization for self-defense. The military forces showed great resistance.”

Mahmud said that defending the land is a civic duty, and added that the essence of the HPC is social defense. “The HPC is a force that represents society. It is not a military force, but it can fight if necessary. Everyone is developing their own defense."

A natural mechanism

Melek Mehmud said that they are protecting their country from enemy attacks and added: "HPC's eyes are always open. Whether it's checkpoints or neighbourhoods, everyone is vigil. A natural mechanism has been developed in HPC. A defense mechanism against attacks is a necessity. The people are aware that protecting their country comes first. Accordingly, they made and are making preparations that will improve the defense of the people.”

Mahmud noted that everyone who takes her place in HPC regards the YPJ-YPG as their own children and added: “We are proud of YPJ-YPG. He protects his country, his mother and father, and they are self-sacrificing.”