Kurdish people living Leeds took to the streets on Wednesday (21 January 2025) to protest about the situation in Syria where Kurds are under attack from the new regime.
The historic homeland of Kurdistan spans parts of Syria as well as Turkey, Iraq and Iran.
Kurdish fighters were crucial in defeating ISIS, but protesters say they have now been abandoned by their former allies, the United States and UK.
South Leeds resident Rebwar Sharazure said:
“Over 3,000 people protested in Leeds city centre calling on the British government to take a clear stance regarding the crimes being committed against the Kurdish people.
“The Kurdish people were the best and most loyal allies in the fight against ISIS in Western Kurdistan, and for this cause they sacrificed 12,000 martyrs.
“Those who yesterday were known as ISIS are today attacking Kurds under the name of the ‘New Syrian Army,’ carrying out mass killings against the Kurdish people.
“We call for the protection of human rights, respect for local autonomy, and an immediate end to all forms of aggression threatening stability in the region. Save Rojava* – humanity demands no less!”
*Rojava is the Kurdish name for the region of northern Syria.
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