Protest in Beth Zalin (Qamishli), North and East Syria, against exclusion from National Dialogue Conference

BETH ZALIN, North and East Syria — The Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) organized a large-scale protest in Beth Zalin (Qamishli) with significant participation from political parties, civil society organizations, and individuals. The demonstration expressed unified rejection of the National Dialogue Conference held in Daramsuq (Damascus).

Unified Stand Against Exclusion

The protest, held near March 12 Stadium, highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with the National Dialogue Conference, which many view as an attempt to marginalize key regions and communities. Representatives from a diverse array of political parties, ethnic groups, and organizations participated, reinforcing the call for inclusion in Syria’s political future.

An official statement was delivered in Syriac, Arabic, Kurdish, and Armenian, reflecting the multi-ethnic and inclusive nature of the protest. Members of the Bethnahrain National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo d’Bethnahrin, MUB), DAARNES officials, youth groups, and women’s organizations were present in solidarity.

Robel Bahho, a member of the General Council of the Syriac Union Party (Gabo d’Ḥuyodo Suryoyo, SUP), told SyriacPress that the protest underscored the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) community’s rejection of the Conference.

“We demand genuine representation for the Syriac {Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean] people in the new Syrian constitution,” Bahho said. “Active participation in national and political affairs is essential for securing a better future for our community.”

United Tribal and Community Voices

Hassan Farhan al-Tai, head of the Tai Tribe Council, noted that the protest brought together all components of the region to reject the exclusionary nature of the conference.

“[DAARNES] has maintained stability and countered terrorism for over eleven years, making its exclusion from the dialogue unjustifiable,” al-Tai stated.

Women’s Organizations Reject Outcomes

Sabah Shabo, an official of the Syriac Women’s Union (SWU), strongly denounced the conference’s conclusions, stating they disregarded the aspirations and struggles of the Jazira region.

“We do not recognize or accept decisions that neglect our people and their sacrifices,” Shabo declared.

The protest in Beth Zalin underscores broader frustrations over Syria’s political future. Communities in North and East Syria continue to demand inclusion in decision-making processes critical to shaping the country’s path forward.