Bethnahrin National Council mourns martyrdom of İzla Özgün, icon of Syriac women’s struggle

BETH NAHRIN — Following the martyrdom of Hawro (Comrade) İzla Özgün just two days before International Women’s Day, condolence letters were issued from the institutions and parties of the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo D’Bethnahrin, MUB).

The Universal Syriac Union Party (USUP) in Lebanon mourned İzla, hailing her as the “Iron Woman” of the Syriac struggle. The party noted that İzla had dedicated her life to confronting injustice and marginalization, working tirelessly to bring the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people’s cause to international attention.

Born in Medyad (Midyat), Turkey, in the historic region of Tur Abdin, İzla later moved to Europe, where she immersed herself in national political work. She founded the Bethnahrin Women’s Union (Huyodo d’Neshe d’Bethnahrin, HNB) to empower women in the struggle for their people’s rights.

İzla’s efforts extended beyond Europe. She traveled to Iraq and Syria, playing a pivotal role in mobilizing women and youth to engage in national and political activism.

The European Syriac Union (ESU) expressed profound sorrow over her passing, stating, “Unfortunately, we have lost the freedom fighter Hawro İzla. No words can express our loss.”

The Beth Nahrain Patriotic Union (Huyodo Bethnahrin Athroyo, HBA) described İzla as a unique symbol of national struggle, blending strength, resilience, and humanity. The HBA emphasized her unwavering commitment to defending her people’s rights, often enduring immense hardship in the fight against injustice and tyranny — whether through advocacy or armed resistance.

Members and officials of MUB institutions worldwide shared their deep grief over İzla’s passing. They pledged to honor her legacy, describing her as a beacon of inspiration for Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) women.

İzla Özgün’s life and work stand as a testament to the enduring struggle for justice, equality, and the preservation of cultural and national identity. Her contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.