The Attack on the Kurds of Serêkanîye was a Planned Attack
Talking is one thing, doing is another: sweet words in Damascus, an attack in Serêkanî
The decision for the return of Serekaniye’s citizens was made between the Autonomous Administration and the Syrian Interim Government, following efforts led by the displaced persons’ city councils. According to the agreement signed on January 29 between the Interim Government of Damascus and the SDF, the return of all displaced persons had been guaranteed.
According to the terms of the agreement made with Damascus, 410 Kurdish families who had previously left their hometowns were attacked with stones, sticks, and guns by some armed forces affiliated with HTS upon their arrival in Serêkanî. In this attack, many people were injured and significant material damage occurred. This attack was not a random, but a planned and organized one, and it took place with the knowledge and approval of the Damascus authorities.
According to the agreement and understanding with the government of Damascus, it was anticipated that the transitional government of Syria would take the necessary steps, to protect the property of displaced persons, return their homes, belongings, and property to their owners, and to remove non-residents from the cities. In its most recent meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the Damascus government had also affirmed that it would respect human rights and international law.
However, the discrepancy between the words and actions of the Damascus regime was once again revealed in the recent attacks on Kurds returning to their homes in Serekaniye.
The United Nations must urgently intervene in this matter, enter into communications with the Syrian government, warn the Syrian government, and intervene to resolve this problem.
Mr. Barham Salih, the UN refugee chief, said yesterday that the increase in returns and the needs of millions who are still displaced require continued international support. Therefore, UNHCR must ensure a safe return for the people of Serêkanî and all displaced persons.
On this occasion, we call on the government of Damascus to fulfill its commitments and immediately stop the attacks by armed forces (under its control) on the Kurds.
The Kurdistan National Congress strongly condemns the attack on Serêkanî and the attackers, calling on all Kurdish organizations and the Kurdish people to raise their voices in support of the people of Serêkanî and to take every possible measure to stand with the refugees and all the people of Western Kurdistan (Rojava).
The Executive Council of the KNK
11.8.2026
