CONFLICTED cover image

CONFLICTED

The Syrian Civil War Pt.3: The Arab Spring Hits Aleppo

Mar 12, 2025
Ronnie Hamada, a Syrian Kurd, shares his gripping experiences as a civilian during the Syrian Civil War. He recounts the harrowing moments of witnessing classmates attacked during Arab Spring protests and the escalating violence in Aleppo. Ronnie reflects on a traumatic internet cafe robbery and the chaos leading to his family's decision to flee to Afrin. He discusses the rise of Kurdish armed groups and the profound impact of the war on civilians, offering an intimate perspective on survival and resistance amid turmoil.
01:10:48

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Quick takeaways

  • Rani Hamadeh's experiences highlight how the Syrian civil war profoundly impacted youth, forcing them into complex political situations amidst conflict.
  • The protests in Aleppo showcased the courage of university students who organized flash mob tactics to resist violent crackdowns by the regime.

Deep dives

The Impact of War on Youth

Rani Hamadeh's experiences as a young Kurdish man during the early Syrian civil war highlight the profound impact of conflict on youth. Turning 18 in September 2011, he faced the impending threat of military conscription amid increasing violence and unrest. Despite the regime's strict crackdowns, students became pivotal figures in the protests, utilizing their educational settings as safe havens for dissent. Rani's reflections reveal how the turmoil of war forces young individuals into politically charged situations, shaping their future in unexpected and often tragic ways.

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