Executions in al-Tabqa mark a new chapter in SDF and PKK bloody violence

Damascus, Jan. 18 (SANA) In a disturbing escalation of violence in northern Syria, the terrorist Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and the SDF organization have executed prisoners in the city of al-Tabqa, in Raqqa province, just before withdrawing from the area. The killings add to a long record of abuses against civilians in regions under their control.

This bloody escalation is part of a broader pattern of documented brutality by these groups, which spans neighborhoods in Aleppo, including Sheikh Maqsoud and Ashrafieh, as well as eastern towns like Deir Hafer. These actions underscore the groups’ reliance on systematic violence as a tool for control and intimidation.

Condemnation as a War Crime

The Syrian government condemned the executions, describing them as a clear violation of the Geneva Conventions and an outright breach of international humanitarian law. It emphasized that the perpetrators will be held accountable, and that victims’ families are entitled to justice. Damascus called on the international community to denounce the killings and ensure they do not go unpunished.

Deep Organizational Links

Analysts say the relationship between the SDF organization and the terrorist PKK goes beyond tactical cooperation, pointing to shared leadership structures, strategic decision-making, and ideological alignment. This explains the striking similarities in their methods of repression and patterns of human rights violations across territories from Hasakah to Raqqa and Deir Ezzor.

Observers also note that the recent surge in violence may reflect internal pressures within these organizations. 

Amid shifting political and military dynamics and growing local dissatisfaction, the groups appear to be escalating brutality as a last resort to maintain dominance and suppress dissent.

SANA