Syriac organizations extend Newroz and Akitu greetings

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — As the peoples of Beth Nahrin (Mesopotamia) and the Middle East celebrate the arrival of Newroz and Akitu, various political, military, and social institutions have extended their greetings, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of these ancient festivals. Among those issuing statements were the institutions of the Bethnahrin National Council (Mawtbo Umthoyo d’Bethnahrin, MUB), the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC), and US President Donald Trump, each underscoring the spirit of resistance, renewal, and the enduring struggle for freedom.

For thousands of years, the peoples of Beth Nahrain have celebrated the arrival of spring through grand festivals that mark the renewal of life and the triumph of hope over darkness. Newroz (21 March) and Akitu (1 April) are deeply rooted in the historical and cultural fabric of the region, originating from ancient Mesopotamian myths associated with figures like Dumuzid and Ishtar. These celebrations, nourished by the same historical and cultural sources, symbolize the shared homeland, unity, and common struggle for dignity and freedom.

Syriac Organizations Highlight Shared Heritage

In its official statement, the MUB emphasized that the peoples of Beth Nahrin have overcome fear and demonstrated courage in shaping their own destinies, inspired by the legacy of Akitu and Newroz. The statement underscored that these celebrations are not merely cultural traditions but expressions of resistance against oppression, reaffirming the deep connection between these festivals and the ongoing struggle for freedom.

The MUB’s statement read:

“For thousands of years, the inhabitants of Mesopotamia and the Middle East — cradles of civilization and humanity — have celebrated the arrival of spring and the fertility of the land through great festivals, welcoming the future with hope and enthusiasm. The myths of Newroz and Akitu, which date back to Dumuzid and Ishtar, are part of our ancient heritage. These festivals, drawing from the same historical and cultural sources, are symbols of our unity, our homeland, and our common struggle for life. Newroz has become a banner of resistance and revolution against oppression. The struggle for a free and dignified life has now taken on a national and social dimension. Inspired by the spirit of Newroz and Akitu, the Syriac people and all oppressed communities in the Middle East express their strong will for a peaceful and democratic system of freedom.” 

The statement also emphasized the collapse of old regimes and dictatorships, highlighting how the values of freedom, solidarity, and cultural heritage are taking root once again in Beth Nahrin lands. It declared that despite the systematic destruction of the region’s cultural wealth by tyrannical, racist, and extremist regimes, these traditions are now regaining their rightful place in history.

The Syriac Union Party (SUP), a political force advocating for the rights of the Syriac (Aramean–Assyrian–Chaldean) people, also issued a statement underscoring the broader significance of Newroz and Akitu. The party highlighted that these festivals represent not only cultural identity but also the enduring struggle for justice and self-determination.

Their statement emphasized the importance of unity among all peoples of Beth Nahrin and expressed hope that these celebrations would inspire greater efforts toward a just and democratic future. The party reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights and cultural heritage of the peoples of Beth Nahrin in the face of ongoing threats.

The General Command of the Syriac Military Council (MFS), extended its Newroz and Akitu greetings, acknowledging the deep historical roots of these celebrations and their relevance to contemporary struggles for freedom. The MFS emphasized that all peoples who have faced oppression can draw strength from the resilience embodied in these festivals.

Similarly, the Syriac Security Forces (Sutoro) and Sutoro Women released a statement emphasizing their role in protecting the principles of coexistence, security, and cultural heritage. The statement recognized that Newroz and Akitu are not just annual festivals but also powerful expressions of the will to resist oppression and reclaim historical identity.

Syrian Democratic Council Calls for Unity and Justice

In its statement, the Syrian Democratic Council (SDC) emphasized that Newroz stand as symbols of struggle, renewal, and the desire for a just and inclusive society. The council reflected on the historical oppression faced by many peoples in the region, including the forced erasure of their languages and traditions, and underscored the importance of embracing democracy and pluralism.

The SDC called on all communities to work together toward a free and equal society where all cultures and identities are respected. The statement reaffirmed the SDC’s commitment to ensuring political representation, cultural recognition, and fundamental rights for all peoples of Syria and Mesopotamia.

US President Donald Trump Releases Newroz Message

US President Donald Trump also marked the occasion with a statement extending his warmest wishes to the Persian people and all who celebrate Newroz around the world. In his message, Trump emphasized the strong ties between the United States and the communities of the Middle East.

His statement underscored that Newroz is a time for hope, renewal, and the reaffirmation of cultural heritage, and he expressed his wish that the coming year would bring peace, prosperity, and greater cooperation among nations and peoples.

Celebration of Identity, Struggle, and Hope

While Newroz and Akitu are times of joy and cultural pride, they also serve as reminders of the ongoing struggles faced by the peoples of Beth Nahrin. These celebrations reflect the resilience, unity, and determination of communities who have endured centuries of oppression yet continue to assert their identities and fight for justice.

As these festivals are marked across the region, the messages of solidarity, freedom, and coexistence expressed by various political and military entities signal a renewed commitment to building a more inclusive and democratic future for all.