Resilient and Unwavering: Palestinian Journalists in Gaza Defy Suppression
February 16, 2025
Journalist Egîd Roj’s Last Words: A Message of Hope Amid Conflict
February 16, 2025
February 16, 2025 – Turkey –
Journalist Egîd Roj (born Shervan Seydo) was killed in a Turkish drone strike while covering civilian protests at Tishrin Dam in northeastern Syria. His death underscores the perilous conditions faced by journalists in conflict zones and highlights the targeted attacks on the press by the Turkish state.
Born in Afrin into a patriotic family, Egîd Roj dedicated his life to documenting the struggles and resistance of his people. Since the outbreak of the Northern and Eastern Syria Revolution in 2012, he joined the revolutionary movement, initially participating in defense operations before transitioning to the field of media. He worked tirelessly for years as part of the free press, covering the Afrin, al-Shahba, and Aleppo resistance efforts. In 2018, he spent over two months alongside fighters, documenting the resistance in Afrin and reporting on operations to liberate the region from mercenary groups. For many years, he also covered the plight of displaced civilians in al-Shahba. Most recently, while reporting on civilian protests at Tishrin Dam, he was deliberately targeted and martyred.
The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) condemned the killing, stating that the Turkish occupation and its mercenary groups continue their terrorist attacks on the regions of northern and eastern Syria, seeking to expand their occupation. The SDF emphasized that journalists like Egîd Roj have played a major role in defeating the occupation by exposing and countering these attacks. They also highlighted that such attacks on the press are aimed at spreading terror among the people and undermining the steadfastness of the forces and people in Tishrin Dam
In his final message, Egîd Roj urged, “Do not despair, do not let despair enter your hearts, because success will surely come.” His words continue to inspire those committed to the pursuit of truth and justice.
The Dicle Fırat Journalists Association (DFG) also condemned the assassination, stating that while journalists working in war zones are protected under international law, Turkey has violated these laws by carrying out drone attacks that have killed journalists. The DFG called for an investigation into the assassination and for those responsible to be prosecuted as war criminals.
Egîd Roj’s legacy lives on through his courageous journalism and his message of hope and resistance. His final words continue to inspire those committed to the pursuit of truth and justice.
Reference –
