PKK/YPG occupation dashes hopes of return for Syrian refugees in Iraq

Syrian refugees residing in the Domiz Camp in Duhok, Iraq, have expressed their satisfaction with the fall of the 61-year-old Assad regime. However, they emphasize that they remain unable to return to Syria due to the ongoing occupation by the PKK/YPG terrorist group, which has caused significant instability and insecurity in the region.

The refugees, who have faced difficult living conditions in the camp for many years, have conveyed their relief at the collapse of the regime. They believe they will only be able to return to Syria once security is fully restored in the areas under the PKK/YPG terrorist organization’s control.

‘I wish to return if unity is achieved after fall of the Assad regime’

Muhammed Salih Dervis, 35, who fled the Kamishli region in Syria 13 years ago and settled in Domiz Camp, stated that although the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has been supportive, they have been living with the hope of returning home for over a decade.

Dervis shared his experience, saying, “I served two-and-a-half years of compulsory military service under the Assad regime, and when the opportunity arose, I escaped. Turkiye helped us by contributing to the downfall of the regime, for which we are grateful.”

He also expressed hope for improved relations between ethnic and religious groups in Syria, particularly between the Kurds and the government of Damascus, believing that such cooperation would make it possible for them to return safely.

Another refugee Muhammed Huseyin Yahya, 65, emphasized that as Kurds, they do not seek conflict or war. He stated, “I wish to return if unity is achieved after the fall of the Assad regime. However, I will only return if the issues are resolved. I do not have a home, but I would rent one and settle down. Life would be better there. I am a teacher, and I believe I could find employment.”

Unable to return to PKK/YPG-controlled areas

Hediye Ramazan Sahin, 72, explained that her family fled Syria when the conflict broke out, leaving behind their home, land and personal belongings. While they still have relatives in Syria, she pointed out that the insecurity caused by the PKK/YPG terrorist organization’s control over the region prevents them from returning.

“We are unable to return to Syria at this time because we cannot even leave our village in Derik. We are afraid to return without knowing that security has been fully established. In areas under the control of the PKK/YPG terrorist organization, no one dares to leave their homes due to fear,” she stated.

Emine Omer, 70, also expressed a strong desire to return to Syria. She remarked, “Damascus is sweet, but our homeland is even sweeter. If the situation in those areas (under PKK/YPG terrorist organization control) improves and peace returns, I will return to my country. However, if I were to leave now, I would not be able to support my family. The world has been disrupted, and people from there continue to come here.”

Thirteen-year-old Ahmed Muhammed, born in Duhok, also expressed his desire to return to Syria. “That is our parents’ homeland, and I wish to return there. The fall of Assad has made us very happy. I hope that Syria recovers and our people are freed from their suffering, so we can return in peace,” he said.