First of all, the entirety of Iran is governed by an illegitimate Islamic Republic regime. However, specifically mentioning Kurdistan as being occupied by the “Iranian state” escalates tensions and signals a dangerous form of separatism. I am truly saddened that Deba seems to be in denial about her Iranian heritage, creating a division between these two identities. Even during the Woman Life Freedom movement, we observed that all Kurds affirmed their connection to Iran. According to various international charters established by the UN, regions within the recognized borders of a country belong to all citizens of that nation. It is disheartening that certain elements in the media promote this type of attitude and propaganda, which I find quite offensive.