Luke's ENGLISH Podcast - Learn British English with Luke Thompson 925. Walaa’s Experience in Syria - Walaa Mouma Returns (Part 2)
Mar 6, 2025
Walaa Mouma, a Syrian woman and current PhD student, shares her harrowing experiences living near Damascus during the Syrian revolution. She reflects on the struggle against dictatorship, her personal survival under siege, and the emotional scars of war. Walaa discusses the dire conditions in post-conflict Syria, highlighting resilience amid corruption and bureaucratic challenges. Additionally, she explores her language-learning journey from Syria to the UK, stressing the importance of community and consistent practice in mastering English.
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Walaa's Early Protest Memories
- Walaa experienced peaceful protests in Berzeh, near Damascus, before government forces began shooting demonstrators.
- She recalls a relative being shot by a soldier for questioning harassment of women during demonstrations.
Deadly Siege and Heat-Seeking Snipers
- Walaa describes the siege of her area with rocket bombardments and sniper technology targeting body heat.
- Dead cats in the street signaled the use of heat-seeking automatic weapons, making it too dangerous to help neighbors.
Free Army and Civilians Under Siege
- After peaceful protests turned violent, a Free Army formed to defend Berzeh, leading to government sieges to expel them.
- Civilians suffered hunger and illness; checkpoints required bribes for civilians to leave, showing harsh restrictions.