Ilham Ahmed: Violations in Afrin Hinder the Return of Residents and Require Urgent Intervention

In a statement to Hawar News Agency, Ahmed explained that the return of Afrin’s residents to their original homes represents a major achievement and one of the fruits of the integration agreement with the Syrian state.

She stated: “However, we follow with deep concern the continued presence of armed elements foreign to the region, which has become a real obstacle to completing this national step. In Afrin and its surrounding villages, we are witnessing increasing violations, including the seizure of homes and agricultural lands, the takeover of the olive harvest, the imposition of illegal fees, and the harassment of residents.”

Ahmed indicated that the seizure of residents’ properties by these elements prevents displaced people from exercising their right to a dignified return, forcing some returnees to rent homes due to the inability to reclaim their own, which constitutes a clear violation of rights and norms.

She asserted that, stemming from their national and institutional commitment, they reaffirm their absolute rejection of any disposal of citizens’ properties and livelihoods outside the framework of the law.

Ilham Ahmed held the Ministry of Defense and security agencies directly and fully responsible for protecting civilians, regulating the security situation, and putting an end to these violations. She called on them to respond to citizens’ complaints, address documented cases with transparency, and restore rights to their owners to solidify the foundations of civil peace and sustainable stability.