Local clerics of Shaddadi reject the Turkish invasion, call for IDPs help

Hasakah – Bassem Shuwaikh – NPA

Sheikhs and religious personnel in the endowments of Shadadi, south of Hasakah governorate, rejected the Turkish military invasion in northeastern Syria, while denounced the abuses committed by Turkish affiliated armed groups against civilians. They also expressed solidarity with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and called for assistance to the displaced people, who had to leave their homes, which were bombed and destroyed due to the Turkish bombardment.

Ahmed Issa, one of the clerics in Shaddadi, told North-Press that they reject the Turkish attacks on the area, and that the pretext of establishing a  safe zone is unacceptable because the north of Syria is a safe area where all beliefs and components coexist, adding that the Turkish state practices everything that is contrary to peace as killing and kidnapping.

He noted that the Turkish-backed armed opposition groups are committing massacres under the so-called safe zone, and that it is more correct to call it a "terrorist zone" according to him.

Issa appealed to the international community and all religious institutions, to set a limit for Turkey and its armed groups, which is practicing sabotage and looting in northern Syria.

Naji Nujoom, one of religion men of Shaddadi, said: "The people of the city do not accept the Turkish invasion, and condemn its military assault, and they did not infringe on Turkey or others to be subjected to invasion and looting."

Nojoom added that Turkey has colonial ambitions and wants to occupy the region and revive the Ottoman glories that have lasted for more than 400 years, and historical massacres were committed against the Armenians, Greeks and Syriacs.

He stressed at the end of his speech that they support the SDF and will defend their land. He also called on people to receive and assist the displaced, who had to leave their homes, which were bombed and destroyed as a result of the Turkish military operation.