Syrian Yezidi Union opens new office in Zalin, North and East Syria, to promote unity and advocate for Yezidi rights

ZALIN, North and East Syria — The Syrian Yezidi Union (Yekitiya Êzîdiyên Sûriyê, YÊS) inaugurated a new office in Zalin (Qamishli), North and East Syria, with the official opening attended by a diverse gathering from Gozarto (Jazira) Canton, including representatives of organizations, political parties, civil society institutions, and a delegation from the Syriac Union Party (SUP) and the Syriac Cultural Association. The SUP delegation, led by the Co-Chair Sanharib Barsom, joined local officials and association members in showing their support.

During the event, those present discussed shared challenges and underscored the importance of preserving values of coexistence and solidarity among communities. The SUP delegation commended the establishment of the new office, recognizing its significance in defending the rights of the Yezidi people in the region and wishing YÊS success in its mission.

Elias Saydo, a member of the Council of Directors of YÊS, spoke to Suroyo TV about YÊS’s objectives. He noted that the first conference was held in 2019 in Gozarto (Jazira) Canton and that YÊS includes multiple Yezidi institutions, such as the Yezidi House in Gozarto, the Yezidi Union of Cafrin (Afrin), and the Yezidi House in Holeb (Aleppo), as well as other organizations abroad.

Saydo emphasized that the new office will focus on addressing Yezidi community issues, safeguarding their property, training youth and children, and building relationships with other groups. He highlighted the importance of strengthening ties, particularly with the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) community, with whom the Yezidis share a long-standing history and mutual experiences of persecution, especially under the Ottoman Empire.