Fighters of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), who are on the fronts of resistance against the attacks by the Turkish state in the most challenging conditions, welcome Newroz, Kurdish New Year, with enthusiasm.

Speaking to ANF, one of these fighters, Vejîn Hesekê, shared her feelings about Newroz: “As YPJ fighters, we wish a happy Newroz to Rêber Apo [Leader Abdullah Öcalan], all our comrades in the positions and our people. 21 March is one of the most important days in the history of Kurdistan. It also carries a sacred meaning and a great message. The Turkish state and its mercenaries target the positions of resistance with the heaviest attacks every day. In response, all our comrades are resolutely taking their places on the front lines and resisting. At the same time, we welcome Newroz with great enthusiasm.

We believe that this Newroz will be crowned with victory. Just as the martyr Mazlum Doğan celebrated Newroz by setting his body on fire with three matchsticks in the Amed (Diyarbakır) dungeon, we will maintain the legacy of his resistance with this determination. No matter how heavy and massive the attacks on the region, we will resist in every way and enlarge the fire of Newroz even more because celebrating Newroz means claiming the thousands of martyrs who sacrificed their lives to enlarge the Newroz fire.”