In the context of ongoing fabricated and false reports, the White Helmets – Civil Defense organization has published false accusations against our forces, claiming the use of incendiary weapons in a bombing targeting the village of Tal Arsh, south of Manbij, on January 21. These accusations are allegedly based on testimonies from civilians.
We categorically reject these premeditated and systematic accusations, which are entirely detached from reality. We would like to to draw the attention of the mentioned organization and the public opinion to the tangible facts documented by photographs, that clearly show the so-called Syrian National Army (SNA) mercenary groups using civilian homes, shops, and farms to hide their weapons and armored vehicles, using them as bases for missile and artillery attacks targeting areas such as the Tishreen Dam, southern and eastern Manbij, southern Kobani, and Sarrin. These actions occur openly under the eyes of Civil Defense personnel. The photos and videos shared by the so-called SNA-affiliated platforms themselves confirm the use of civilian infrastructure during their attacks on the Tishreen Dam, directly belie the White Helmets’ allegations.
Our forces, which have consistently adhered to international law even in battles against the most dangerous organizations like ISIS, have canceled numerous legitimate response operations against Turkish-backed mercenaries (the Syrian National Army) in southern and eastern Manbij. This decision was made to protect civilian lives, as these mercenaries deliberately position themselves in civilian-populated areas.
We call on the White Helmets organization to refrain from aligning themselves with mercenary groups affiliated with Turkey and to avoid concealing their well-documented crimes. These crimes include recent actions in southern Manbij, Ain Issa, Kobani, and Tal Tamir. The organization must maintain a clear distinction between humanitarian work and the political and military agendas of its administrators.
SDF Media Center
January 24, 2025
