The occupying Turkish state and the allied Syrian National Army (SMO) mercenaries have been carrying out intense attacks against the Tishrin Dam and its countryside since 8 December. In response to the escalated aggression, the YPJ (Women’s Protection Units), SDF (Syrian Democratic Forces) and the Manbij Military Council launched ‘Martyr Ezîz Ereb Manbij Operation’ on 23 December. Within the scope of the operation, the area of Qijlê to the north of the dam, as well as Xirbêt Tuwêna and Mehşîtî Tewahîn in Abu Qelqel district have been cleared of Turkish-backed gangs.

Hecî Hesekê, one of the commanders on the Tishrin Dam front, where resistance has been going on for 22 days, spoke to ANF about the latest situation on the ground.

The commander stated: “We are putting up historic resistance and repelling the attacks of the invaders. The morale of the fighters is the greatest motivation in repelling the attacks and dealing a great blow to the enemy.  No matter how hard they tried, they have not been able to reach and occupy the dam for 22 days now. They tried to panic the people with false news every day, but they could not achieve their ambitions. Our people are witnesses to the resistance in Tishrin. We respond to false propaganda with the commitment to ensure that the flag of resistance will not fall until there is a single fighter left in Tishrin. The flag of this resistance will always fly. We have full determination and morale. We firmly believe that we will destroy the occupiers. The fighters are ready for resistance no matter what technique is used against them. We will continue to advance on the path of resistance.”

Hecî Hesekê stated that they welcomed the new year on the front of resistance and congratulated the people on the new year. He stressed that they will not compromise on struggle and will do their best to ensure that people can lead a peaceful and safe life.