Journalist Lezgîn Îbrahîm witnessed both the first Kobanê resistance and the current situation. He underlined the determination of the people of Kobanê people to mobilize and defend themselves and the city. Comparing today’s situation to the acts of heroism in 2014, Îbrahîm told ANF: "The goal today is to thwart the attacks carried out by the Turkish state, which is supporting ISIS. The people have risen again with the same unwavering determination as on the first day."

Îbrahîm spoke about the city’s strategic importance and the plans targeting it and emphasized that the people of Kobanê have a deep historical consciousness that fuels their spirit of resistance, providing a powerful source of motivation. He said that the attack on Kobanê is perceived as a direct assault on the future of Rojava and added: "Before ISIS reached Kobanê, it had already taken control of large parts of Syria and Iraq, emerging as a force that even national armies could not counter. These armies, unable to defend their lands, abandoned vast stores of ammunition. ISIS was then directed toward Kobanê. Everyone understood the strategic significance of this small city. Capturing Kobanê would have dealt a devastating blow to the Rojava Revolution. It was the solidarity, unity, and full mobilization of the people that became the foundation for Kobanê’s survival."

Self-defense as a way of life

Îbrahîm described how, even in the face of relentless attacks, the people of Kobanê fully grasped the importance of self-defense and recognized the YPJ and YPG as their only protectors. He said:

"Even before the Autonomous Administration officially declared a state of mobilization, the people of Kobanê had already prepared themselves because they understood the gravity of the threat. Young men and women joined the ranks of the YPJ, YPG, and Asayîş forces. Villages and neighborhoods did not remain unguarded. Everyone contributed to their own self-defense. There wasn’t a single home left unprotected. Mothers roamed the streets collecting vegetables and used whatever they had in their kitchens to prepare meals for their children fighting on the frontlines. They worked tirelessly through the night, and it was almost impossible to find a mother who had rested. Their unwavering support sent a powerful message to the YPJ and YPG fighters: 'We are with you.'”

Îbrahîm continued: "This solidarity deeply moved the fighters, boosting their morale and determination. On the frontlines, we saw elderly people guarding checkpoints in their villages, stepping up to defend their communities. The dedication of a people so deeply connected to their homeland was inspiring. As we advanced closer to the frontlines, the spirit of resistance we witnessed lifted our own morale. Against ISIS, a force that terrified the world, the YPJ and YPG fought with fearlessness and determination, gaining ground and showing unwavering courage."

Kobanê: a symbol of global resistance

Îbrahîm said that the Kobanê resistance became a symbol of rebirth for the Kurdish people and for Kobanê itself, bringing the city global recognition. He said: "Had Kobanê not resisted—had it not fought and paid the heavy price it paid—the echoes of its struggle would never have reached the world. It would not have drawn the attention of the international community or earned its support. The brave resistance of Kobanê was the driving force behind the global outcry. Against ISIS, a force that terrorized the world, this small city put up an extraordinary resistance, relying solely on its own strength. This captured the world’s attention and amplified the voice of the Rojava Revolution, spreading its message beyond Northern and Eastern Syria. For the Kurdish people, Kobanê has become a sacred symbol. It also holds a profound place in the hearts of people around the world. In this context, the declaration of World Kobanê Day serves as a testament to the spirit of resistance and solidarity embodied by Kobanê."

An open wound for the Turkish state

Îbrahîm pointed out that the occupation attempts targeting Kobanê in 2014 and the current threats from the Turkish state are deeply interconnected. He said that Turkey’s support for ISIS was a key factor in the earlier attacks. Îbrahîm also noted Erdoğan’s frustration when ISIS failed to capture Kobanê, underscoring Turkey’s role as the driving force behind the assault. He explained the Turkish state’s continued targeting of Kobanê as follows: "The Kobanê resistance shattered Turkey’s plans for Rojava. It broke ISIS, which had been supported in every possible way by the Turkish state. The resistance also led international powers to support the YPJ and YPG. Most importantly, the Autonomous Administration system, which was strengthened by the Kobanê resistance, spread to all regions of Northern and Eastern Syria. Now, the Turkish state seeks revenge for ISIS’s defeat. For Turkey, Kobanê remains an open wound. They wanted to empty the city, but they failed. Despite relentless attacks, the people of Kobanê patiently wait for the day of liberation, never forgetting the pain and oppression they endured."

New resistance

Îbrahîm concluded by noting that the mobilization and self-defense efforts of Kobanê’s people today are reminiscent of the legendary resistance of 2014. He said: "At this critical moment, with Kobanê facing intense threats from the Turkish state, the people are once again acting with a spirit of full mobilization. Self-defense units have been formed to protect neighborhoods, streets, and villages. This unyielding spirit of resistance recalls the heroic defense of 2014. People don’t simply say, the SDF exists, so there’s no need to fight. On the contrary, everyone has mobilized with the same determination of the first day. 

Their primary goal is to foil the attacks of the Turkish state, which continues to support ISIS. Learning from the past, they are approaching the current situation with greater caution. With this determination, the people of Kobanê are ready to deal the Turkish state another defeat."