MSDOn the tenth anniversary of the Kobani massacre—committed by the forces of terror against Kurdish civilians—we remember one of the most horrific crimes to have targeted human life in Syria. At the same time, we honor the lasting symbolism of a city that stood firm against terror and, through the sacrifice of its people, marked a defining moment in the history of resistance to extremism.
In June 2015, after having withstood a prolonged and brutal assault by extremist forces, the city of Kobani was infiltrated by terrorist cells that carried out a savage attack on its residential neighborhoods. What followed was a massacre of unspeakable cruelty, targeting children, women, and the elderly—an indiscriminate slaughter in which no one was spared. Hundreds of innocent people were killed in what stands as one of the most atrocious and bloody massacres in Syria’s modern history.
The resistance of Kobani marked a decisive turning point in the fight against terrorism. It was the first Syrian city—and indeed the first geographic stronghold in the region—to stand firm against the violence and extremism, at a time when other cities were falling with little or no resistance. Kobani became a symbol of resilience, embodying a people’s suffering that was transformed into an act of defiance which inspired the world.
As members of the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), we commemorate this painful anniversary and affirm that the impact of that tragedy continues to be felt today through ongoing acts of terrorist violence. Just days ago, the capital Damascus witnessed another harrowing massacre inside the Orthodox Church of St. Elias, where extremists targeted unarmed worshippers in the midst of prayer. Although the methods may vary, the mentality behind these atrocities remains unchanged—a mindset that strips people of their humanity in the name of hatred and legitimizes violence under the guise of belief.
This anniversary is not merely a moment of mourning—it is a call to action. It demands the mobilization of both national and international will to continue the fight against terrorism in all its forms. Also, it must prevent its reemergence under new guises within Syrian territory. The extremist organization has not been entirely defeated; its sleeper cells and financial backers still pose a real threat to the safety and future of the Syrian people.
On this solemn occasion, the SDC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the values of justice and coexistence. We renew our pledge to all components of Syrian society that we will continue our struggle to build a safe, democratic Syria—free from tyranny and extremism. A Syria that upholds human dignity, protects the unity of its social fabric, and guarantees all its citizens the right to live without fear, violence, or terror.
June 25, 2025
Syrian Democratic Council
