Press release
Syrian Opposition Coalition
Department of Media and Communications
June 04, 2021
The Syrian Opposition Coalition (SOC) condemns the kidnapping of journalist Husam al-Qass as it demands his immediate and unconditional release.
Al-Qass is a member of the Assyrian Democratic Organization and a media activist operating in the town of al-Malikiyah (also known as Derik) in al-Hasaka province. He wrote posts on Facebook expressing support for the uprising of the people of Manbij against the terrorist PYD militia and against forced conscription. In response, he was brutally beaten and kidnapped on Thursday.
We condemn the practices of the terrorist PYD militia against civilians, especially kidnapping, enforced disappearance, intimidation and violation of the rights of civilians. The PYD militia imposes itself on the Syrian people with iron and fire as a de-facto authority, let alone that it is committing crimes, violations and abuses against civilians. Everything possible must be done to rein in these acts and hold those responsible to account.
These terrorist militias and their various arms hardly end a violation, aggression or crime before they start another one. These crimes must not be condoned or tolerated. The international parties supporting these militias must bear their responsibilities.
The Syrian people are continuing their struggle to get rid of tyranny and build a state of citizenship; dismantle all terrorist organizations and militias; and put an end to their presence on our land.
