Originally published on January 27th, 2019
On January 27th, 2015, four years ago today, revolutionary forces in Kobanê defeated the fascist Daesh forces.
The defeat was a turning point in the long war being fought in the Middle East, marked a huge loss of the military initiative by fascist forces, and put Turkey’s regime on a defensive footing.
This battle was significant in highlighting the importance of the women’s movement for global struggle. Women were at the forefront of defense and without their autonomous initiative the fascist forces may have prevailed.
The Battle of Kobanê also saw the introduction of anarchist forces into the war, and anarchist participation in the struggle at the border.
Devrimci Anarşist Faaliyet (DAF, or Revolutionary Anarchist Action) participated in helping comrades cross the border to join the struggle. These anarchist revolutionaries also helped inside the city during the conflict.
Sosyal İsyan, or Social Insurrection also emerged in the combat. Inspired by Alfredo Bonanno, and green anarchism, this collective fought against Daesh in Kobanê as well. Fighting in tandem with Birleşik Özgürlük Güçleri (BÖG, or United Freedom Forces) the early formations of internationalist struggle was formed. The International Freedom Battalion was announced shortly after.
Anarchists have fought in every major battle in the revolution in Rojava, and the war in Kobanê will be remembered as a turning point in the Middle East.
(via AMW English)