MSDOn this solemn day, we commemorate with reverence and honor the martyrs who gave their lives on the path to freedom and dignity. We pledge to their pure souls that their sacrifices will forever remain a guiding light for all those striving to build a free, democratic, and pluralistic homeland—a homeland that embraces all its people without discrimination or exclusion. Martyrs’ Day in Northeast Syria is not a fleeting commemoration; it is a deeply rooted milestone in the collective memory of the region’s peoples. It also symbolizes the highest values of sacrifice in the face of terrorism, tyranny, and occupation.
On the morning of April 25, 2017, Turkish warplanes committed a grave atrocity by bombing the military command center of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the media headquarters of the People’s Protection Units on Mount Qarachogh. That heinous attack claimed the lives of some of the most distinguished commanders and fighters—those who stood at the forefront of the war against the Islamic State (ISIS).
The aggression on Qarachogh was not merely a violation of Syrian sovereignty. It was a clear signal of Turkey’s expansionist intentions, which have since manifested through ongoing aggression and occupation. This hostile campaign has relentlessly targeted the stability of Northeast Syria through killings, forced displacement, and attempts obliterate the identity of the region. That attack marked a turning point, exposing the true nature of Turkish policy. It is a policy that does not hesitate to strike those who fought terrorism, simply because they dared to struggle for freedom and the rightful aspirations of their people.
The martyrs of Qarachogh fell while carrying the banner of humanity in the face of one of the most brutal terrorist organizations. They were not merely victims of aggression. They have become enduring symbols of resistance and foundational pillars of the democratic experience in Northeast Syria. Their heroism played a decisive role in defeating ISIS. It empowered the people of the region to build their own institutions. These institutions are based on a participatory and pluralistic vision that rejects authoritarianism and embraces the unity of Syria, both its land and people.
In this context, the Turkish attack on Qarachogh cannot be viewed in isolation. It is part of a long history of crimes committed by the Turkish state. This history spans from the Armenian massacres of the early 20th century to the genocidal policies targeting the Kurdish, Syriac, Arab, and Yazidi communities in Syria today. This reflects a continued colonial mentality. It systematically denies the rights of indigenous peoples and seeks to entrench domination through violence and terror.
As members of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), we bow with deepest respect before the souls of our martyrs. We solemnly renew our pledge to honor their sacrifice and uphold their legacy. Our struggle will continue until the Syrian people achieve their rightful dream of a free, safe, and democratic homeland. This homeland will honor the blood that has been shed and will put an end to tyranny and occupation once and for all.
On this sacred day, we reaffirm our commitment to national dialogue and the pursuit of peace. We are dedicated to building relations with countries based on mutual respect and good neighborliness. Our goal is to end war and violence, and establish a region free from terrorism and dictatorship—one that serves as a true model of justice and peaceful coexistence.
April 25, 2025
Syrian Democratic Council
