A Protest Demanding the Expulsion of Arabs and the Establishment of a Rojava State in Afrin
Accounts on social media platforms circulated a video clip claiming that a protest took place in the city of Afrin demanding the expulsion of Arabs and the establishment of a Rojava state.
Original claim:
“A Kurdish protest in Afrin demanding the expulsion of Arabs and the establishment of Rojava.”
Verification summary: Misleading.
The video dates back to celebrations by residents of Afrin welcoming families returning from Hasakah province. The footage was filmed on March 10, 2026. The scenes show traditional Kurdish songs expressing joy over the return. A local official in Afrin confirmed to the Kashaf platform that the video documents celebratory chants welcoming returning residents. The clip shows Afrin residents receiving migrants returning to their city.
Why is the claim misleading?
- The content is used out of context. The video depicts residents welcoming returnees from Hasakah province, not a political demonstration.
- The purpose of the gathering is misrepresented. The voices heard in the video are limited to traditional Kurdish celebratory chants and contain no demands for the expulsion of residents or the establishment of a state.
Sources:
- A local official in Afrin.