ZAINAB KHALIF

Deir ez-Zor – Women in the Deir ez-Zor region of northeastern Syria warned against media discourse that distorts the reality of Syria and incites different segments of the Syrian population against one another, paving the way for massacres and increasing the risk of a widespread civil war.

Hind al-Salem, from the city of Hajin, likened discord to a tree that is watered until it grows. She emphasized that "the tree of discord must be neglected so that it does not bear fruit. Society cannot produce true strength unless women are restored to their rightful place." She believes that the fate of society rests in the hands of mothers and women, as they are the foundation of life.

"Oppressing women is the beginning of the collapse of society."

A country where women are subjugated and marginalized cannot rise or achieve stability. She added that accusing women and labeling them as weak is a form of cowardice and deception. "If women were weak, there would be no strong nation, and there would be no strong men, because women are the true support; they are the ones who stand behind these men."

She explained that the subjugation of women represents the first form of occupation of the homeland, considering the oppression of women to be the beginning of societal collapse and a model of a failed and fascist state. "The strength of society lies in the strength of women and their genuine partnership with men, where both parties work hand in hand to build a cohesive nation, which is what everyone desires," she stated.

Hind Al-Salem pointed out that women are an extension of a long history of giving, citing timeless female role models. "Throughout history, women have founded civilizations and built nations, and this role continues today in partnership with men, not in opposition to them," she said.

She clarified that those who have stood by and supported women are not their enemies, but rather those who have embraced, helped, and assisted them, calling for continued support, encouragement, and empowerment of women.

Hind Al-Salem also expressed her gratitude to the women's organizations operating in the regions of North and East Syria, which support, visit, and advocate for women's issues, considering these organizations to be the strength of society and the strength of the region.

Differences Don't Mean Conflict

Maryam al-Ali stated that the unity of the people and the solidarity of all components constitute the true guarantee for protecting society from divisions. She emphasized that differences do not mean conflict, but rather can be a source of strength if built on mutual respect and cooperation.

She added that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) played a crucial role in protecting civilians and securing areas, noting that their presence contributed to enhancing the sense of security, especially among women and children, amidst the difficult security conditions that Syria has witnessed and continues to witness.

Maryam al-Ali explained that the establishment of the Autonomous Administration represents an important step towards a better future for Syria, as it allows for genuine participation of all components in managing their affairs and grants women an active role in political and social life.

She expressed her concern about some media outlets that use threatening and distorting language, stressing that such rhetoric does not serve the interests of the Syrian people, but rather exacerbates tension and division. The solution lies in responsible media that conveys the truth and contributes to strengthening civil peace.