The Kurdish solidarity movement gained momentum on Monday as demonstrations erupted across the Kurdistan Region and parts of Europe. Protesters rallied in support of Kurds in Rojava, who face attacks from Syrian government forces and affiliated Islamist groups. Demonstrators in Erbil held the “Monday of Union” protests, urging international intervention to halt aggression against Rojava.
The protests coincided with the 11th anniversary of Kobani’s liberation from ISIS. Kobani now faces renewed siege, this time from Syrian government troops and Islamist factions. Activists noted the anniversary highlights the persistent threats to Kurdish communities.
In Erbil’s city center, residents gathered near the historic citadel. They waved Kurdistan flags and chanted slogans such as “Bijî Berxwedana Rojava” or “Long live the Rojava resistance.” Many added, “We protect Kurdistan with our souls” and “Bijî Kurdistan, Bijî Rojava.” One participant said, “We must resist in every way possible, including protests and raising our flag.”
In Sulaymaniyah, demonstrators of all backgrounds joined marches in support of Rojava. Volunteers handed out water and Kurdish flags to participants as they moved through the streets. One protester said, “Victory for Rojava. This is a painful injustice against the Kurdish people, but we now stand together across all four parts of Kurdistan.”
Furthermore, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces commander Mazloum Abdi shared support for the protests on social media. He said he received a phone call from Bafel Talabani, President of the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan, expressing pride in the ongoing resistance. Abdi added that, moreover, seeing crowds in Sulaymaniyah fills him with hope.
Meanwhile, in Kirkuk, activists staged rallies in front of the citadel, chanting and displaying messages of support for Rojava. Religious scholar Hemin Mirespani emphasized that participation was nonpartisan. “We are all here for Kurdistan. Long live the Kurds and Kurdistan,” he said. Additionally, another demonstrator added, “Today is a historic opportunity for Kurdish unity. Kobani, Qamishlo, and Hasakah are not alone—Rojava is not alone.”
Support for Rojava also continued online and through humanitarian aid campaigns. Organizers noted that the timing of the protests underscores ongoing threats to Kurdish communities across the region. Analysts say the widespread participation demonstrates the growing strength of the Kurdish solidarity movement, which continues to unify Kurds politically, socially, and culturally, preserving their rich heritage and traditions.
Clearly, the Kurdish solidarity movement is expanding beyond borders, rallying Kurds in defense of their communities and preserving the spirit of resistance. The demonstrations show that Kurds across all regions remain determined and united.
