Syriac Military Council marks 11 years of resilient defense and cultural preservation amid ongoing struggles in Syria

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — In the turbulent landscape of Syria, where tensions, security chaos, and the rise of terrorist groups have been prevalent, the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) community has faced increasing risks within their historical homeland of Beth Nahrin (Mesopotamia). The past decade has witnessed various challenges, compounded by the withdrawal of Syrian regime forces and the evolving dynamics of the Syrian crisis, leading to the establishment of the Syriac Military Council (Mawtbo Fulḥoyo Suryoyo, MFS) on 8 January 2013.

In comments to SyriacPress, Spokesperson of the MFS Mattai Hanna underscored the necessity of forming the Council in response to the prevailing security chaos. This environment had provided fertile ground for the growth of extremist ideologies, posing significant threats to the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people.

The primary objectives of the MFS are comprehensive, aimed at protecting the rights, sanctities, and overall territory of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people. Hanna emphasized that the MFS is also committed to safeguarding the diverse components of the entire region, fostering unity among Kurdish, Arab, Yezidi, and Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) peoples.

As part of its strategic vision, the Syriac Military Council initiated the establishment of military academies in key locations, fostering intellectual, political, and military development. Hanna emphasized the Council’s active engagement with Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) youth, striving to build a resilient and capable defense force that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the community.

Reflecting on the Council’s 11th anniversary, Hanna acknowledged the pivotal role it played during the 2015 Islamic State (ISIS) attack on Tel Tamr and the Syriac–Assyrian villages in the Khabur River Valley. The Council, alongside People’s Protection Units (YPG) and Women’s Protection Units (YPJ), demonstrated extraordinary courage and sacrifice during a challenging 90-day resistance, resulting in the liberation of the region.

Hanna emphasized the Council’s active participation in the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a broader alliance designed to safeguard the interests of diverse ethnic and religious groups while ensuring the privacy of the Christian component. The MFS’s commitment within the SDF framework extends beyond merely military objectives; it remains dedicated to protecting the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people’s presence in North and East Syria.

Despite facing numerous challenges, including restructuring efforts, self-management initiatives, and limited resources, the Syriac Military Council has actively participated in campaigns against ISIS in key regions such as Hasakah, Raqqa, and Dayro Zcuro (Deir ez-Zor). The MFS played a crucial role in contributing to the territorial defeat of the terrorist organization in 2019.

Hanna acknowledged the sacrifices of dozens of Council fighters who lost their lives during these 11 years, emphasizing that these martyrs serve as a perpetual source of pride and inspiration. He reaffirmed the Council’s unwavering commitment to resisting any regime that threatens the indigenous peoples in the region and expressed confidence in the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people’s ability to self-manage and contribute to decision-making processes.

As the Syriac Military Council commemorates its 11th anniversary, it stands as a beacon of hope for the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people, dedicated to protecting their rich cultural heritage and defending their historical homeland.