Yazidi’s in Iraq and Syria Fear Fresh Persecution After Turkey’s Offensive
Introduction
The Yazidi community in Iraq and Syria continues to face significant challenges and fears of renewed persecution, particularly in light of Turkey’s military operations in the region. Nearly a decade after the ISIS genocide against Yazidis in 2014, the community remains vulnerable and concerned about their safety and future.
Ongoing Displacement and Slow Return
Despite efforts to rebuild, many Yazidis are still displaced:
Approximately 300,000 Yazidis remain internally displaced in Iraq, mostly in camps in the Kurdistan Region.
Between 130,000 and 150,000 Yazidis have returned to Sinjar since January 2024, but this return is often bittersweet due to destroyed infrastructure and traumatic memories.
About 2,600 Yazidis are still missing from the 2014 genocide, with many mass graves yet to be excavated.
Threats from Turkish Military Operations
Turkey’s military actions in Iraq and Syria have created new fears among the Yazidi population:
Turkish airstrikes in Sinjar have targeted areas where Yazidis live, causing civilian casualties and hampering reconstruction efforts.
The threat of a Turkish ground invasion has led many Yazidis to pause their plans to return home.
Turkish operations have displaced 162 Kurdish villages in Iraq, with 600 more at risk, affecting Yazidi communities in the region.
Security Concerns and Instability
The Yazidi community faces ongoing security challenges:
The presence of various armed groups, including the PKK and Turkish-backed forces, contributes to instability in Yazidi areas.
Yazidis fear a resurgence of ISIS, particularly in areas where Turkey has gained influence.
The lack of unified governance and security in Sinjar complicates efforts to protect the Yazidi population.
International Response and Recognition
While there has been international recognition of the Yazidi genocide, concerns remain about ongoing protection:
Many countries and organizations have officially recognized the 2014 ISIS attacks on Yazidis as genocide.
However, the international community’s response to current threats, including Turkish military operations, has been limited.
Psychological Impact and Desire to Emigrate
The ongoing instability and trauma have profound effects on the Yazidi community:
Many Yazidis, especially younger generations, express a desire to leave Iraq and Syria permanently due to security concerns and lack of opportunities.
The fear of another genocide looms large in the collective consciousness of the Yazidi people.
Conclusion
The Yazdi community in Iraq and Syria continues to face significant challenges to their safety and well-being. The combination of historical trauma, ongoing displacement, and new threats from Turkish military operations has created a precarious situation for this vulnerable population. International attention and support remain crucial for ensuring the protection and long-term stability of the Yazidi community in their ancestral lands.
