29.04.2014
ABOUT THE RECENT EVENTS IN KESSAB
A seminar-discussion titled “About the Recent Events in Kessab” took place in Noravank Foundation on April 25, 2014. H. Cholakian, a Syrian-Armenian intellectual, Expert in Armenian Studies and a witness of Kessab events, addressed the audience.
The seminar was attended by Noravank Foundation experts, representatives of the analytical community of Armenia and journalists.
The speaker presented a brief historical sketch on the settlement of Armenians in Kessab and their life since the times of Tigran the Great. He then elaborated on the Syrian conflict and the clashes that took place in the Kessab sub-district and neighboring areas before the last attack. H. Cholakian especially emphasized the factor of Turkmen population in these clashes, noting the separatist aspirations among them.
The speaker noted that despite the security concerns that the people had, until the last moment the Syrian authorities and the local Armenian structures were confident that Kessab will not be attacked.
H. Cholakian then spoke in detail about the attack on Kessab, the ensuing combat and flight of the Armenian population. He especially emphasized the significance of Turkish bombardment for the outcome of the battle. He pointed out that the combatants who penetrated Kessab were well prepared and due to skillful tactical actions were able to win the combat against the Syrian armed forces. With regard to the damage caused to Kessab, H. Cholakian noted that the surrounding villages with mixed Armenian/Alawite populations were particularly hit hard.
Concerning the condition of Armenian refugees in Latakia, the speaker underscored the importance of assistance delivered to them by Armenian and non-Armenian organizations. On H. Cholakian’s account there are about 3000 refugees from Kessab in St. Astvatsatsin Church in Latakia. In general, the speaker deemed the attack as comparable to the 1909 tragedy of Kessab.
In conclusion, with regard to the future of Kessab, H. Cholakian noted that even in the event of liberating the town, the prospects are dim due to the flight of the people.
An active exchange of questions and answers, and a discussion followed.
