Hala Safil: From Captivity to Hope — A Yazidi Survivor’s Journey

Hala Safil is a Yazidi genocide survivor who endured unimaginable suffering at the hands of ISIS. Today, she lives in Armidale, Australia, where she continues to rebuild her life while advocating for justice, recognition, and support for the Yazidi people.

The Day Everything Changed

On August 3, 2014, the Yazidi community of Sinjar faced one of the darkest days in its history. Thousands of armed forces withdrew from the region, leaving innocent civilians exposed to the advancing ISIS militants.

Recalling that day, Hala says:

“I lost everything. I lost the love and protection of my parents, the warmth of my siblings, and the sense of safety that has never fully returned. Even today, I feel as though a part of me remains shattered.”

The Massacre of Qana Village

Hala is originally from the Tal Qasab complex near Sinjar. During the ISIS attack, her family was targeted in Qana village, located east of Sinjar.

The terrorists massacred nearly 100 villagers. Among those killed were Hala’s father, brother, cousin, and several uncles. In a single day, she lost 13 members of her family.

The tragedy did not end there.

Hala, her mother, younger siblings, and sister-in-law were taken captive and transported to Tal Afar. For three years, they endured slavery, abuse, humiliation, and repeated violations under ISIS rule.

“No words can fully describe the suffering we experienced,” Hala says.

A New Beginning

On July 1, 2017, Hala was liberated from western Mosul.

For her, this date represents a second birthday.

“It was the day I returned from hell. It was the day I was given a new chance to live.”

Hala expresses deep gratitude to everyone who supported Yazidi survivors throughout their recovery journey, including activists, humanitarian workers, and community members who provided hope during the darkest times.

The Genocide Has Not Truly Ended

Although ISIS was militarily defeated, Hala believes the consequences of the genocide continue today.

Thousands of Yazidis remain displaced. Many families still live in camps with limited services and opportunities. Reconstruction in Sinjar remains slow, security challenges persist, and many survivors continue to struggle with trauma and loss.

The lack of adequate compensation, support, and long-term solutions has forced many Yazidis to leave their ancestral homeland in search of safety and stability elsewhere.

Hala’s Message to the World

Hala calls on governments, human rights organizations, and the international community not to forget the Yazidi people.

“Isn’t this suffering enough? Our freedom will never be complete until justice is achieved, victims are recognized, and every missing Yazidi is found and brought home.”

A Message to Fellow Survivors

Hala also has a message for Yazidi survivors around the world:

“We must stand together. Our tears alone will not heal our wounds. We need unity, advocacy, and action. We must continue working with human rights organizations, activists, and our communities to secure justice, support survivors, and ensure that our story is never forgotten.”

Today, from her new home in Armidale, Australia, Hala Safil continues to carry the memories of those she lost while standing as a powerful symbol of resilience, survival, and hope.