Jihad and Terrorism Threat Monitor (JTTM) Weekly: April 5-12, 2025
Note to media and government: For a full copy of these reports, send an email with the title of the report in the subject line to media@memri.org. Please include your name, title, and organization in your email.
EXCLUSIVE: Islamic State (ISIS) Supporter Mocks April 1 Boston Truck Crash: 'They Are Attacking Themselves'
A supporter of the Islamic State (ISIS) mocked the Boston truck crash of April 1, 2025, in which a box truck crashed on one of the city's sidewalks.
EXCLUSIVE: Protesting Israeli Strikes In Syria, Actions In Gaza, Syrians Chant: 'The Nation Wants Jihad Declared,' Threaten 'New October 7'
On April 3, 2025, the Israeli military reported that gunmen opened fire on its soldiers in Tasil, Daraa governorate, as they were working to "confiscate weapons and destroy terror infrastructure," whereupon Israeli forces returned fire and killed several gunmen "on the ground and from the air."
EXCLUSIVE: Syrian Jihadi Clerics Urge Syrians To Take Up Arms In Preparation For 'Great Epic Battle' Against Assad Loyalists, Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Israel; Wage Jihad Against Israeli Forces
In recent days, the U.S., UK, and other countries have urged their citizens to leave Syria immediately, warning that attacks might take place during the Eid Al-Fitr holiday targeting "embassies, international organizations, and Syrian public institutions in Damascus."
EXCLUSIVE: Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Telegram Channels Cheer 'Steady Rise' Of ISIS Ideology In Mauritius, Impending 'Return Of Caliphate' In Bangladesh
On April 1, 2025, a pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Telegram outlet, shared video clips celebrating the purported presence of ISIS in the Republic of Mauritius, an island country in the Indian Ocean, about 2,000 kilometers off the southeastern coast of East Africa.
Leaflets Distributed In Palestinian Refugee Camps In Damascus Call For Dawn March Of 'Jihad' On Israeli Border To 'Liberate Our Brothers Inside Palestine'
On April 5, 2025, Syria-based Facebook accounts shared images of leaflets reportedly distributed in Palestinian refugee camps in the Damascus area calling for marches on the Israeli border on the morning of Friday, April 11.
Once Again, For The Third Time In Twenty-Four Hours, Houthi Ansar Allah Movement Claims Drone And Missile Attack On U.S. Aircraft Carrier; Houthi Spokesman: We Will Escalate Attacks Against 'The American Enemy'
On April 2, 2025, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi Ansar Allah movement (the Houthis) claimed responsibility for yet another drone and missile attack – the third in 24 hours – on "enemy warships in the Red Sea, led by the U.S. aircraft carrier Truman."
Houthi Ansar Allah Movement Claims Another Attack On U.S. Aircraft Carrier, And Interception Of Seventeenth U.S. Aircraft; Vows To Continue Attacks On Israel
On April 3, 2025, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi Ansar Allah movement (the Houthis) claimed responsibility for the interception of "an American MQ-9 drone" – allegedly the second in the previous 72 hours – above the Al-Hudaydah Governorate in western Yemen, and also for another drone and missile attack against the USS Harry S. Truman and its affiliated warships in the northern Red Sea.
Houthi Ansar Allah Movement Claims Attacking American Targets In Red Sea, Downing 'American-Israeli' Drone, Attacking Central Israel
On April 4 and 5, 2025, Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi Ansar Allah Movement (the Houthis) released three statements claiming operations against American and Israeli targets, carried out over those two days.
Pro-Houthi Poster Depicts President Trump Kneeling In Submission
On April 4, 2025, a Telegram channel affiliated with Iran-backed militias in Iraq published a poster depicting the military spokesman of Yemen's Ansar Allah Movement (Houthis) standing triumphantly with one foot on the back of a kneeling U.S. President Donald Trump.
Iran-Aligned Militia In Iraq Signals Threats Against New U.S. Consulate In Erbil
On March 31, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced that its new Consulate General building in Erbil, in northern Iraq, is set to open next month.
Iran-Backed Militias In Iraq: American Embassy, Targets In Iraq Will Be Attacked If Iran Attacked
On April 7, 2025, a new Iran-backed Iraqi militia as well as a group affiliated with Iran-backed militias in the country, threatened to attack American targets in Iraq in the event of an attack on Iran.
Iran-Backed Iraqi Militias: We Will Stand With Khamenei If War Is Declared Against Tehran
On April 3, 2025, amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran over the latter's refusal to end its nuclear program, the Secretary General of an Iran-backed Iraqi militia issued a statement on his Telegram and X (formerly Twitter) accounts emphasizing his group's unwavering support for Iran.
WARNING – GRAPHIC: Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) Tallies March Operations Across Region In New Infographic, Documents Rising Pace Of Attacks On Nigerian Army Bases In First Week Of April
On April 5-6, 2025, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) documented a series of attacks against Nigerian army bases in Nigeria's Borno State, releasing photosets showing barracks in flames, bodies of dead soldiers, and an assortment of "spoils" seized following each attack, including vehicles, motorcycles, rifles, and ammunition.
Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) Releases Photos Showing Attack On Christian Village In DRC's Ituri Province
On April 5, 2025, the Islamic State Central Africa Province (ISCAP) claimed that its fighters had, on April 4, attacked the Christian village of Ofaye Otto Maber, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)'s Ituri province, capturing and beheading 12 Christian residents.
Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Newsletter Releases Exclusive Photos Documenting Operations And Eid Prayers In Nigeria, The DRC, And Mozambique
On April 3, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) released issue 489 of its weekly newsletter.
Islamic State (ISIS) Weekly Editorial: ISIS Brought Shari'a To Everyday Life; Adversaries Promote 'Part Of Scripture' To Benefit Rulers, Dissuade People From Waging Jihad
On April 3, 2025, the Islamic State (ISIS) released Issue 489 of its weekly newsletter.
Islamic State (ISIS) Critic Claims Somalia-Based 'Abd Al-Qader Mu'min Chosen As Caliph Due To Distance From 'Spies And Collaborators' In Syria, Despite Lack Of Other Qualifications
On April 2, 2025, an anti-Islamic State (ISIS) channel active on Telegram and an Al-Qaeda-operated server published a post claiming that the position of ISIS caliph is symbolic, and the organization's top position is the head of its "Delegated Committee."
Pro-ISIS Female Writer Condemns 'Perfidious' Reaction To Killing Of Muslims In Gaza, Syria, And Sudan, Says The Mujahideen Preserve Right To Hardhearted Response: 'Open Your Blind Eyes, It Is The Era Of The Caliphate'
On April 1, 2025, a pro-Islamic State (ISIS) media outlet published an article on Telegram by a pro-ISIS female writer.
Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Outlet Alleges U.S. Rejects Somali Request To Deploy American Troops To Counter Al-Shabab Movement In Somalia; U.S. Prioritizes Action Against ISIS Over Al-Qaeda
On April 6, 2025, a Telegram channel supporting the Islamic State (ISIS) published a post alleging that the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump had rejected a Somali government request to deploy 6,000 American troops to counter the advance of Al-Shabab, an Al-Qaeda affiliate, toward the Somali capital, Mogadishu.
Pro-Islamic State (ISIS) Tech Outlet Promotes SimpleX As A Secure, Untraceable Messaging Platform
On April 2, 2025, a pro-ISIS group known for providing cybersecurity guidance to ISIS supporters via an ISIS-operated server republished a guide, in English and Arabic, detailing how to use the encrypted messaging platform SimpleX.
Sydney-Based Pro-ISIS Preacher Launches Campaign To Boycott Australian Elections
On April 2, 2025, a Sydney-based pro-Islamic State (ISIS) preacher called on Australian Muslims to boycott the federal elections scheduled for May 3, claiming that voting violates Islamic law and strips participants of their faith.
Al-Qaeda Affiliate GSIM Claims It Killed 100 Soldiers, Seized Large Assortment Of Weapons In Country's East; New 'Harvest Of Operations' Monthly Infographic Tallies Over 208 Casualties During Month Of March
The official outlet of Al-Qaeda's affiliate, Jama'at Nusrat Al-Islam Wal-Muslimeen (the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims – GSIM) reported that the March 28, 2025, group's attack on a military barracks in the Diapaga Department, in Tapoa Province, eastern Burkina Faso, killed 100 Burkinabe soldiers.
WARNING — GRAPHIC: Al-Qaeda Affiliate Group For The Support Of Islam And Muslims (GSIM) Claim Several Cross-Country Attacks On Burkina Faso Army
On the weekend of April 4, 2025, the Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (GSIM), claimed responsibility for several attacks targeting Burkinabe forces across the country.
Al-Qaeda Affiliate Al-Shabab Claims Two Shelling Attacks In Mogadishu: One Damaging Presidential Palace With President Inside, Another Killing Three Westerners Working For UN At Halane Base
On April 5, 2025, the official Arabic-language media outlet of Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Somalia, Harakat Al-Shabab Al-Mujahideen (Al-Shabab), claimed that the group's fighters carried out a "qualitative operation" targeting the presidential palace in the capital, Mogadishu, while the President was present, along with those leading his military campaign against the "Islamic regime in Somalia."
Photos: Al-Shabab Takes Control Of Town In Somalia's Hiran Province
Al-Shabab, Al-Qaeda's affiliate in Somalia, reported took control of a town in the country's Hiran province.
Al-Qaeda Supporter Warns Against Engaging With Non-Jihadi Resistance Groups: 'We Do Not Support Weird Separatist Resistance Movements Be It In Iran, Kashmir, Or Elsewhere'
An Al-Qaeda supporter warned others against associating and engaging with non-jihadi "resistance" organizations.
Poster By Pro-Al-Qaeda Media Group: Muslims In West Have 'Golden Opportunity' To Wage Jihad, 'What Are You Waiting For?'
On April 4, 2025, a pro-Al-Qaeda media group released the third poster in its "Individual Jihad" series, featuring excerpts from the works of a slain Al-Qaeda ideologue.
Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) Video Calls On Pakistani Soldiers To Repent, Promises To Raise Islamic Flag Over Parliament House In Islamabad
In Part 10 of its video series "We Are Ready," Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) warns Pakistani security forces personnel that they will be brought in chains when the mujahideen raise Prophet Muhammad's white flag over the Parliament House in Islamabad.
Afghan Media Report: Taliban Leader Mullah Hibbatullah Akhundzada Has Curtailed Role Of Interior Minister Sirajuddin Haqqani, Who Is 'Yet To Be Seen At The Ministry Or Participate In Official Events, Raising Fresh Questions'
Amid reports that the United States has removed rewards for information leading to the capture of Afghan Taliban Interior Minister and Haqqani Network chief, an Afghan media outlet reported that the emir of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA, i.e., the Afghan Taliban), has curtailed the Minister's role and status within the Taliban hierarchy.
Hizb-ut-Tahrir Afghanistan On Afghan Taliban's Release Of American Prisoner: The Taliban 'Government's Interaction With America – Which Is Currently In Direct War With The Islamic Ummah … Contradicts Shari'a'
On March 23, 2025, Hizb-ut-Tahrir Afghanistan issued a press statement, condemning the recent meeting between a U.S. envoy, a former U.S. peace envoy, and Afghan Taliban's Foreign Minister.
Afghan Media Report: Taliban Law On Propagation Of Virtue And Prevention Of Vice Unfairly Targets Ethnic Minorities; 'Women Fear Being Reported To The Taliban By Their Neighbors, A Situation That Has Increased Distrust In Society'
According to a Dari-language report in the Afghan press, a recent study reveals that the Afghan Taliban are using their law promoting the "Propagation of Virtue and Prevention of Vice" to unfairly target ethnic minorities in Afghanistan.
Afghan Taliban Website: 'IEA's Release Of The American Prisoner Is Not Just A Diplomatic Victory But A Powerful Reminder Of Afghanistan's Resilience And Strategic Importance'
On March 23, 2025, Hizb-ut-Tahrir Afghanistan issued a press statement condemning the recent meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump's hostage envoy, former U.S. Representative for Afghanistan Affairs, and the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA, i.e., the Afghan Taliban).
Jihadi Uyghur 'Turkestan Islamic Party (TIP)' Reverts To Its Former Name, 'East Turkestan Islamic Party'
On March 5, 2025, the Syria-based Turkestan Islamic Party (TIP) issued a statement announcing that it will be returning to using its former name, "East Turkestan Islamic Party."
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Dialogue with Damascus advancing, not yet ‘formal negotiations': Rojava official
Also in Interview Washington should help SDF reach deal with Damascus: Former US diplomat EU MP urges Turkey to embrace peace talks with PKK Germany is shifting gears with stricter migration, stronger defense: German MP DEM Party plans overhaul as PKK disarms A+ A- QAMISHLI - Talks between the Kurdish-led administration in northeast Syria (Rojava) and the interim government in Damascus are progressing but have not yet reached the stage of formal negotiations, a senior Rojava official told Rudaw. Elham Ahmad, foreign relations co-chair of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES), told Rudaw's Dilbixwin Dara in an interview from Qamishli, that discussions with Damascus remain in their early phases and that 'one cannot call them outright negotiations. 'They are a form of dialogue' which 'falls within the framework of how we can address the Syrian issue,' Ahmad said. In recent months, the Rojava administration has been engaging in talks with Syria's interim government over integration into federal institutions - including the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) - based on a March 10 agreement between interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa and SDF chief Mazloum Abdi. A core issue, according to Ahmad, is differing interpretations of what "integration" means. 'Our understanding of integration is that it should involve mutual recognition - Damascus must recognize us, just as we recognize them,' she explained. However, a key sticking point is that 'each side interprets this agreement differently,' Ahmad noted, elaborating, 'Our understanding of integration is that it should involve mutual recognition - Damascus must recognize us, just as we recognize them.' Following his appointment as Syria's interim president, Sharaa in late January pledged to form an 'inclusive transitional government that would reflect Syria's diversity.' However, he has faced criticism from both domestic and international observers for allegedly sidelining minority communities in the governance process. In the interview aired by Rudaw on Sunday, Ahmad argued that centralized rule in Syria has long caused suffering, and decentralization would lighten the central government's burden by giving regions responsibility for services, culture, language, internal security among other things. Kurdish leaders have long advocated for a decentralized system within Syria. Ahmed argued in the interview aired on Sunday that centralized rule in Syria has long caused suffering, and decentralization would lighten the central government's burden by giving regions responsibility for services, culture, language, and internal security. On the regional front, Ahmad confirmed that there are ongoing discussions with Turkey through an 'open channel,' calling the engagement 'positive and constructive.' She emphasized the need for dialogue to prevent further escalation and to explore peaceful solutions. She also voiced strong support for the peace process between Turkey and the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), describing it as a historic opportunity 'not only for Kurds but for the entire Middle East.' The senior Rojava official further extended her appreciation to Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani, citing his 'genuinely positive role' during what she described as 'sensitive and challenging times' for the people of northeast Syria. Below is the full transcript of the interview with Elham Ahmad. Rudaw: Dear viewers, good time to you all from Qamishli. We are in Western Kurdistan (Rojava) and I am presenting a very important interview here with a distinguished guest - a diplomat and official of Western Kurdistan, the foreign relations co-chair of the Democratic Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (DAANES), Elham Ahmad. Ms. Elham, welcome. Elham Ahmad: Welcome, thank you. Welcome. It is interesting that neither of us is from Qamishli. Although you are from Afrin and I am from Kobane, we are closer together. Thank you very much for accepting this interview. Ms. Elham, you are very active, very vibrant in your work. You have a massive responsibility you're shouldering, isn't it? It's a national responsibility, a revolution that has reached a level where we must now see results from it and fulfill our duty. I want to start by asking about the negotiations and exchanges between you and the interim leadership in Damascus. What are they about? These meetings that are happening in Damascus - are they negotiations, dialogue? What is exactly happening in Damascus? Yes, actually, what is happening in Damascus is at its beginning, but one cannot call them out right negotiations. They are a form of dialogue - meaning, they fall within the framework of how we can address the Syrian problem. When the [Bashar al-Assad] regime was in charge, that regime represented one side, it was clear, and that regime was the Baath regime. The other side facing that regime was the opposition. Much effort was exerted to truly save Syria from that crisis. Those engagements [with the toppled Assad regime] cannot be called negotiations either. They were also a form of dialogue about how we could exit the crisis, but those engagements did not work. Now, the new administration in place, the interim administration [led by Ahmed al-Sharaa], wants to bring [the different] Syrian parties under its umbrella, understand all the diverse components and communities within [the Syrian] society, include them [in governance] and accordingly establish a new Syria together. Through these engagements, we wish to reach partnership in this country. We believe we are Syrian. We are Kurdish and Syrian, we are Arab and Syrian, we are Syriac and Syrian. Our common identity that brings us all together is being Syrian. Within this framework, we are asking how can we build a new Syria together? For this, [I can say], the engagements [between Rojava and Damascus delegations] can be described as dialogue. Through this dialogue, we can find the path to resolution. Syria has yet to exit this fundamental crisis and has yet to save itself from this [thorny] situation. We ask: how can we save Syria from this crisis, bring it to a stable situation and an agreed-upon situation? At this stage, the talks [between the delegations] are taking place within that framework. Is there someone supervising or monitoring these negotiations? Indeed, there are mediators. [The latest meeting] marked the first time an American representative participated, a French representative also participated, and Britain was also involved indirectly. But the parties that sat down - including our representatives and the interim administration's - we sat together following [agreement] on several main points that are required to reach a resolution, and held discussions about what measures can be agreed on following the March 10 agreement signed in Damascus [between Sharaa and Syrian Democratic Forces chief Mazloum Abdi], to implement the items of that agreement. How can we implement [that accord]? By adopting which approach? Our discussions centered on that. Are you satisfied with the role of US Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack? What is his role in these negotiations? What does he do? It was the first time that both of us - [DAANES and Damascus representatives] - saw Mr. Barrack in the meeting. It was the first time he participated in the meeting in person. In my opinion, as he mentioned in the meeting, to be able to play a positive and good role, knowing the parties is very important. I think there was hope that some decisions would come out of the meeting. We also said one or two decisions must come out of this meeting, but they didn't. Why wasn't that possible? Because of the [difference in the two sides'] understanding of "integration." In the March 10 deal, we agreed on integration in the form of participation. However, each side interprets this term, integration, differently. Our definition of integration is that it must entail mutual recognition. That means that the Damascus government also recognizes us as we accept them. What kind of acceptance might you say? Now they represent an interim administration. They assumed rule and became the interim administration. However, elections were not held, the entirety of the Syrian people and society did not agree to [their assumption of power], but they came, ousted Assad and became the interim administration. For example, they declared an interim constitution which they drafted [on their own]. They also formed an interim government and now preparations are underway to announce a people's assembly. These were all unilateral measures they implemented. So they did not hold consultations with you when doing these things? There were no consultations, neither with us nor with other Syrian components or parties. These steps are all taken unilaterally. There is one party that has declared itself as the interim administration, and we are in dialogue with this side to properly and truly implement the March 10 agreement. Does the new leadership in Damascus want the SDF to join the Syrian army? How do you view this matter? Are you against the SDF becoming part of the Syrian army? Tom Barrack wants this from you, doesn't he? To join the Syrian army and for the SDF to cease to exist. There is such a decision in the March 10 agreement. It says integration, meaning the SDF must also become part of the army. There is such a decision, there's an agreement. Under its own name? [As the SDF?] This matter is up for discussion. When discussions start, what form we will agree on will be taken as a basis. It is not like they can just come and say "surrender your weapons" or "bring all these fighters you have, transfer them and goodbye, it's over for you." The issue isn't like that. The integration we are talking about is different. We say the interim government must recognize the will of the people here [in Rojava]. In terms of security, how do these people protect themselves? Or how do they want to reach a way with Damascus to bear the responsibility together? Damascus must see all the people as Syrians. What emerged in the meeting is, [we noted] that the people here are under an administration - today this administration is called DAANES, tomorrow it might be something else - but there is [an administration] with institutions serving this community and serving the people. [The integration the Damascus leadership has in mind] is that when this integration in institutions [takes place], the people in those institutions are not accepted as employees of state institutions by the interim administration in Damascus. They're perception is that there are people here, they'll come and replace them, they'll take charge. That's it, the other side will have no role anymore. And you don't accept this? You don't accept that the Syrian interim government comes and administers this region? No, that's not it. Now there's the issue of integration, however, [prior to that], Kurds are still lacking an identity. They have not been officially accepted as a national component within Syrian society with a history. This issue is not outlined in the constitution and they do not have self-administration rights. For thirteen years, the people of northern and eastern Syria have been in a system where they've both protected themselves and managed themselves. They've presented massive sacrifices, martyrs. They have suffered greatly and have been displaced. As they say, "We suffered under the [Baath] regime," the people here [in Rojava] have also suffered under that regime, made sacrifices, and fought against the Islamic state (ISIS), Daesh. This is why, in Syria's general national issues, no one can say, "I've done more and I deserve to take charge of everything." The issue isn't like that. They are also tired, they have also made sacrifices, everyone has made sacrifices, so they must sit together and figure out how do we rebuild this country, how do we manage it? A common thinking must be created. You have no intention of dividing Syria? I am asking this because many parties accuse you of wanting to divide Syria through maintaining the DAANES? Division or fragmentation must have a reason [to call for it]. Why division? There must be reasons for that and those reasons become the basis for a society to think about separation and the main reasons [usually] come from the center. If the center truly recognizes the rights of this community, holds their hands, treats them as equals and respects their will, then why would they seek separation? For years, it has always been said about this community, about the Kurds, that "they are dividing Syria." Today, the same is being said about [the Druze community in the southern province of] Suwayda. Mind you, under Assad's Baath regime, the people who sidelined themselves the most and did not participate in [the Syrian civil] war and did not kill anyone and remained peaceful were Syria's Druze. But what are those people being exposed to today? They are facing extermination, accused of being 'infidels who must be exterminated" and of wanting to 'divide Syria." Suwayda is a city - if it were to be divided from there one day, where would it go? If Syria is divided, where would it go? So the people of Suwayda don't want to separate, do they? No, our relations with the Druze are very good. Until now, we haven't heard from any of them saying, 'We want to divide Syria.' There's no such thing. These are scenarios and propaganda made deliberately that they keep repeating. Yesterday, Hakan Fidan, Turkey's Foreign Minister, again said, "We won't allow division." He says if Syria is divided, it means Turkey will be divided. Why are such statements made when a people want to live in peace and want to reach an agreement with the current government? Look and see - the idea of Kurdish separation hasn't come from anyone's mouth until now, it's not in anyone's intention, but if, when rights are demanded and this is called "separation," this means the intention of the person speaking this way is bad. What kind of Syria do you want? Do you want a federal Syria? Do you want a Syria where you're autonomous? Do you want a decentralized Syria? What kind of Syria do you want? We've always openly stated in our projects or goals: the centralized state has brought nothing but pain and suffering to this society for decades. We, the people living in northern and eastern Syria, along with other components, with the advancement of democracy, with the advancement of different systems that express democracy, this shows that a decentralized system that shares state powers, meaning the duties of the central state, with regions, fundamentally lightens its own burden. So you insist on a decentralized system? Yes, a decentralized system that lightens Damascus's central burden. Give responsibility to the regions. If problems arise tomorrow, say, "We left it to you." Whatever there is, you solve your own problems. Education, health, internal security, and economy. All these must be decentralized, give duties to regions, cities, and provinces. For example, give it to them so they can manage themselves and the people there bear responsibility. If there's always a centralized system like before, someone says, 'according to the decision I make, and it's imposed on everyone,' this deepens the crisis. The previous system caused the crisis. If they do the same, problems will deepen again. You won't surrender your military forces, meaning the SDF, you won't hand over the DAANES, you won't hand over your institutions to Damascus, you won't give your borders to Damascus, you won't give the airports to Damascus. What will you give to Damascus? Have you and Damascus reached some common points between yourselves? Yes, there are [mutual points]. The things we see as right. But when we say decentralized, it doesn't mean nothing is centralized. We know some things are centralized: country borders, for example, let's say border crossing, airports, passports, identification cards - these are all tied to the center in all federal countries. We are not saying "everything must be decentralized." No, but the services aspect, cultural aspect, and language aspect - all these must be decentralized. For example, today there are many Kurds here, the Kurdish language can be primary here, but in another city, another place, it doesn't have to be Kurdish. So you're saying the Kurdish language should be first in Western Kurdistan? Yes, let it be first alongside Arabic, let the Kurdish language be first. There are Syriacs, let there be Syriac language, but the cultures here might not exist in Idlib. In Idlib, Arabic is enough, in coastal areas, Arabic is enough, but in Afrin, Kurdish is primary. When there are decentralized systems, they fundamentally make the situation much easier, eliminate internal problems, cause people to truly feel they have rights, have character and will, and participate in this state by their own will, meaning they're within this state, not always by force, like "no, you must be Arab!" But I'm not Arab. No, if I speak Arabic, I might not be able to express myself well. Society should not be administered by force. Damascus and those states which have influence in Damascus must understand this. We have not said we won't surrender, but the issue of "surrender" is itself problematic. We want to have "participation" be the basis; voluntary participation, the SDF participates in the army. For example, which army exists in Damascus now? We can establish it together. Let's establish it together. Are we creating an internal security system? The same way our hearts are set on Qamishli, at the same time let them be on Hama and Homs and Latakia too, see their security like your own security. For that, the internal security system - we voluntarily participate in it, create it together, and create regional councils together. This isn't difficult. The idea that "only I exist, I am the state, I am everything" - this idea must change. I mentioned the airport, Qamishli airport - its name is also written in Kurdish, Arabic, Syriac, and English. Previously, it was only Arabic and English. Will you manage the airport in the future? We are not fixated on that. We know the airports issue is a sovereignty matter. meaning they're connected to the central government and managed by it. But here, which province it's in, there's a kind of guarantee or let's say a way of how this airport can best serve society? This needs discussion. We talked about decentralization. Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani has also spoken about it with Sharaa and with Tom Barrack. He said there must be a decentralized Syria. You made a visit to Erbil, and I saw you met with President Barzani. I wanted to know his role - how do you see his role? His role is truly appreciated. It's a positive role, especially given the problems Rojava - or northeastern Syria - is facing today. His personal relationships with international leaders and his dialogue with the temporary administration in Damascus are significant. From what we've seen and through our direct contact, we can say his role has been genuinely positive and deserves thanks. We also hope his involvement grows even further - so that, in these sensitive and challenging times, we can support each other more and work more closely to help resolve the crisis in northeastern Syria. Recently, I heard you say, "We have direct contact with Turkey." Have you visited Turkey? There are discussions, there's an open channel. There are direct discussions and dialogue, and there's a need for these dialogues, and we see them as important too. Especially when there was war between us, and hell was breaking loose. Very intense attacks were made, and great resistance was made. Now at the negotiation level, at least, instead of using weapons directly, there's talk. There's negotiation - what's the problem, how can this be solved, how do we understand each other? This exists. There are ongoing discussions and an open channel [of communication]. We are engaged in direct talks and we believe these dialogues are important. Especially during times when war was raging between us - when attacks were severe and resistance was intense. It is better now to talk than to fight. Instead of exchanging fire, we talk: what's the problem, how do we solve it, how can we understand each other? But I want a clear answer - did you go to Turkey? According to my information, you met with the deputy head of Turkish intelligence (MIT). Is this true? Let's not overshare - there are negotiations, and we see them as positive and constructive. We are focused on removing the obstacles [hindering development] in the region, and our discussions are ongoing. So, will these discussions continue? Yes, we fundamentally want the dialogue to improve further. Rather than relying on threats, we must sit down, understand each other, and talk about what the actual issues are - what do they want? Their talks with Damascus are truly very deep. We know this. To some extent, sometimes it even feels like they speak more on Damascus's behalf than Damascus does itself. We understand this too. But today we are thinking about all of Syria, and they say they are too. Northeastern Syria is part of Syria, so relations must improve on that level. Have you had any negotiations with Abdullah Ocalan, the jailed leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK)? We receive news and direct information, especially when he managed to come forward with a brave and significant initiative during a very sensitive time. In my opinion, this [peace] initiative isn't just for Kurds, it's for the entire Middle East. The peace process [between the PKK and the Turkish state] is like no other in history. At a time when everyone was saying, "It's over, it's finished," and while resistance and defense were also very strong, he said: "The era of armed conflict is over. The war has played its role, and now change is necessary." Presenting such an initiative, that message was very important to us. Have your negotiations with Ocalan taken place directly? Has he called and spoken with you? Maybe they have, maybe they haven't. What I can confirm is that there has been dialogue, and we do receive information. What is most important is that the initiative he proposed has had a major impact and brought very important results for western, northern, and eastern Syria. For solution projects across all four parts of [Greater] Kurdistan, his vision is fundamental. Ocalan has called on the PKK to lay down arms. Has he asked you to do the same? Laying down arms is not on our agenda - is it not at all an option. Syria's situation is still dangerous. In full view of the world, people are still being killed and massacred. Asking the SDF to disarm under these conditions is like telling them to walk into death. It is very dangerous. However, within the broader discussions on Syria's future - how Kurds, the DAANES and the SDF fit in rebuilding Syria - these questions will eventually be addressed. Ocalan recently said he wants to meet with Kurdish leaders, including you. Are there plans for you to visit him? This is truly very important for Kurds. I would truly like to meet him. If it happens, it would be very positive, but we haven't received an official invitation yet. Personally, I see it as a necessity. If it happens, I believe it will have a very positive impact. You saw Ocalan's video message from Imrali prison. What was your reaction to it, how did it seem? It was very different. His ideas, the spirit and morale he conveys - even at his age - with such determination and clarity on peace, democracy, and justice, are incredible. His proposals are inclusive, not just for Kurds, but for all communities whose rights have been denied. He speaks of a new democratic system that reorganizes states and re-establishes republics. It is visionary. The Kurdish Unity Conference in Qamishli formed a delegation to visit Damascus, but it didn't go. Was the delegation not ready, or did Damascus refuse to receive them? The delegation is ready. The paper [of the topics on their agenda] is also ready. But Damascus has not yet prepared itself to receive them. Work is being done on that. We anticipate that in the future a time must be set for a meeting to take place. If Damascus also prepares itself, until now, there's no problem with the delegation. Your visits to Damascus won't block the Kurdish delegation's visit? Some think you're going alone without them. No, I don't believe that. The current delegation that is holding talks with Damascus represents the general framework of the DAANES. The Kurdish delegation, on the other hand, is focused on Kurdish rights - constitutional recognition, the Kurds' role in the new Syria. When we go to Damascus, we also discuss Kurdish rights, the general decentralized system and the SDF forces, meaning what Syria's administrative system will be. We have those discussions. We also discuss the role the SDF will have in the new Syria. It's about those. Is there any fear that war may again reach the DAANES or are you hopeful that it won't happen? We truly hope not. Syria has suffered enough. Still, there are forces trying to stir conflict. There are parties that want to ignite a war by any means. For example, the 'tribal mobilization" - the call made to the tribes prompting them to go to Suwayda [to fight the Druze]. They went from this area too, that mentality. They gather themselves with an idea, with an idea and move. That is a very dangerous situation. We can say that in our region this hasn't happened much, neither has a response to those calls and in this idea been recorded. It hasn't happened much. But there are those who went [to Suwayda] and returned as bodies. This danger truly exists. Here I want to urge our brothers, especially our Arab brothers, to be careful about this matter. This region is stable; people look after their lives, even if things are difficult, they manage themselves by their own will. Why should they leave their areas and go to Suwayda to get themselves killed? Why disrupt the situation here? There are those capitalizing on this, within the interim administration, there are people pulling these strings. In neighboring countries, too, there are those who are pulling strings too. This will not end well so I stress that not falling into this trap is very important. If there's an attack on Rojava like what happened in Suwayda or with the Alawites - massacres [in the coastal regions] - who will protect you? We've always protected ourselves - with support from the forces of [the US-led Global] Coalition to Defeat ISIS and most importantly, from our own people, we have Kurdish backing. We have strong societal support, international relations, and Kurdish relations as well. In such a scenario, I think general support within the Kurdish community, especially the Syrian people, is needed. I think that the spirit of Kurdish identity and responsibility exists. So you see such an attack on Western Kurdistan as unlikely? It should not happen, it must not happen. Which country do you see as closest to you? In Europe and the West? If I name them, it might not be very objective. Until now, for example, our relations with France are strong. Our talks are good, with some other countries, for example, Germany. We've also had good dialogue with Germany and other countries. In tough times, some of them reach out to us themselves, asking how they can help. That's important. If something urgent arises, do you have high-level contacts in those countries? Yes, with many countries. For example, in the US, we have contacts at the White House and the Pentagon - at many different and high levels. I want to ask about Afrin, Serekaniye (Ras al-Ain), and Gire Spi (Tal Abyad). What do you see as their future? Regarding Afrin, Sare Kani and Gire Spi, discussions are ongoing. We agreed to establish a committee. It was also included in the [Abdi-Sharaa] March 10 agreement. There was a special item regarding the return of displaced persons to their homes. We formed a committee for Afrin, but after that, Damascus did not follow through. A meeting was required to officially discuss the return of the displaced persons. We've also said people from Deir ez-Zor who are now living in Afrin should return to their homes, and we guarantee nothing will happen to them. In return, our people in camps - living in dire conditions - must be allowed to return to Afrin, Serekaniye, and Gire Spi. We're discussing this with both Ankara and Damascus. The Turkish side says 'we handed it over' [to Damascus], but violations continue to take place and armed groups tied to Turkey are still there. The future of these areas must also be discussed so that people can return home. When will we see you in Afrin? I hope very soon. We're putting all our weight to resolve this situation as soon as possible. So you believe Afrin's people will return and the demographic changes won't be permanent? Yes, they will return. Afrin's people will return. There's no alternative. True, the destruction is massive, but we believe our people will rebuild it again. You've traveled across many parts of Kurdistan, especially Western Kurdistan. Which city did you love the most? Afrin is beautiful - its people, its nature. All our cities are good, but Afrin is very special, both geographically and personally for me. I've also visited cities in South, North, and parts of Eastern Kurdistan. There are very nice cities. Is there a city that holds a special place in your heart? Of course, it's Afrin. One must love their own city - it holds history and memories for me. But truly, every place in Kurdistan is beautiful. So you want to visit Afrin soon? Is it possible for you to go now? It's difficult. The security situation is problematic, and there's no official permission from the other side that would allow such a visit for now. You've traveled a lot - to cities in Kurdistan, Europe, and America. But I asked earlier whether you've been to Turkey recently, and you didn't give a clear answer. I've been before. But I'm asking about recently - in the past few days. Is there any danger to your life during these travels? Yes, there is danger. But we also take security precautions to protect ourselves. I was truly happy to interview you. Thank you for giving us time. It was very nice to do this interview here in Qamishli. I've always seen you on TV, but this is the first time meeting you face-to-face. Kurds praise you a lot and have even given you affectionate nicknames - some call you 'our diplomat.' That kind of recognition also places a heavy burden of responsibility on your shoulders. That's absolutely true - it's a very heavy responsibility that's been placed on us. Is your diplomatic team strong? Yes, but it still needs to improve - and it's getting stronger. As women, we say: whatever strength we have, we put it in service of our people. Whatever resources, whatever capacity we have, we dedicate it to serving our people. We see ourselves as servants of the people - that's how we define our role. We understand that we're living in historic times, and we carry a historic responsibility. We must see it through to the end. The accountability for this is heavy - we know this well. And because of that, we approach everything with a spirit of responsibility and a hope that we can rise to the level of our people's expectations.
Shafaq News
5 hours ago
- Shafaq News
Syria to hold first election after Al-Assad in September
Shafaq News – Damascus Syria is set to hold parliamentary elections from September 15 to 20 with more seats and outside monitoring, the chairman of the Supreme Elections Committee confirmed on Sunday. The Head of the Supreme Committee for People's Assembly Elections, Mohammad al-Ahmad, told Syria's state-run SANA that the revised system increases the number of assembly seats from 150 to 210, with 70 members to be directly appointed by the president. He noted that the allocation of seats will reflect population figures from Syria's 2011 census, leading to expanded representation for several provinces. The Transitional President Ahmad al-Sharaa, during his meeting with al-Ahmad, stressed the importance of conducting elections in all Syrian provinces, reiterating his rejection of any form of division—an approach he described as universally opposed by the Syrian people. He also emphasized the exclusion of individuals who supported 'criminal elements' or promoted sectarianism and separatism. Following the signing of the electoral decree, the committee will have one week to form local subcommittees, which will then be given 15 days to select the voting bodies. Afterward, candidate registration will open, with nominees granted one week to prepare their platforms before engaging in debates with selection bodies and subcommittee members. Al-Ahmad indicated that at least 20 percent of the electorate bodies will include women, reflecting efforts to promote gender inclusion in the voting process. The elections will be monitored by domestic observers and international organizations, coordinated by the Supreme Electoral Committee. Authorities will also guarantee the right to challenge candidate lists and final results, he added.
Shafaq News
6 hours ago
- Shafaq News
Palestinian journalist wounded by Israeli fire near Gaza border
Shafaq News – Gaza A Palestinian journalist working for Yemen Today TV was wounded on Sunday while covering events near the northern edge of the Gaza Strip, local sources confirmed. Abdalhadi Farahat, a field correspondent, was struck by Israeli army fire in the Al-Sudaniya area, adjacent to the Zikim military zone. The extent of his injuries remains undisclosed. Farahat was on assignment near the frontline when he came under fire. The Al-Sudaniya region, known in Israeli military terms as Zikim, lies along a tense stretch of the Gaza-Israel border that has witnessed repeated clashes. His injury adds to the mounting toll on media workers in Gaza. Since the onset of Israel's war on the enclave in October 2023, at least 228 journalists and media professionals have been killed, including 46 reportedly targeted in connection with their reporting.
