Turkey Will Act Decisively on Kurdish Militias if Syria Does Not Respond

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has stated that Turkey will take whatever measures necessary to ensure its security regarding concerns about US-backed Kurdish groups in Syria. He emphasized the need for the new Syrian administration to address these issues, specifically calling for the disbandment of the YPG, which Turkey considers a terrorist entity. The situation has escalated following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, prompting Turkey to assert its military readiness if required.

On December 21, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan asserted that Turkey would take “whatever it takes” to ensure its national security if the new Syrian administration fails to address its concerns regarding US-backed Kurdish groups, which Ankara classifies as terrorist organizations. Turkey views the YPG, the prominent group within the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as a terrorist extension of the PKK, which has waged a prolonged insurgency against Turkey for 40 years. Following the recent political upheaval in Syria, hostilities have intensified, exemplified by Turkey’s forces seizing the city of Manbij from the SDF on December 9.

In a dialogue with France 24, Fidan expressed Turkey’s preference for a resolution that respects Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, demanding the immediate disbandment of the YPG. He emphasized that Turkey must protect its national security, which may necessitate military actions. When queried about SDF commander Mazloum Abdi’s remarks concerning potential negotiations with Ankara, Fidan suggested that the SDF should seek dialogue with Damascus instead, due to a changing political landscape in Syria.

Moreover, Fidan criticized the increase of U.S. troops in Syria, labeling it an inappropriate decision, considering the current conflict with ISIS. He suggested that the rationale for U.S. support for the SDF was merely a pretext. Furthermore, he recognized the past collaborative relationship Turkey maintained with the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham in efforts against ISIS, highlighting intelligence sharing as a critical factor.

Turkey’s ongoing conflict with Kurdish groups in Syria is deeply rooted in its longstanding struggle against the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which has been designated a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), supported by the United States in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS), include the YPG, which Turkey perceives as an extension of the PKK. The current instability in Syria following the fall of Bashar al-Assad has escalated tensions, with Turkey asserting its resolve to protect its borders from perceived threats. The U.S. military presence in the region adds complexity to these dynamics, as it continues to support the SDF even as Ankara voices its opposition.

In conclusion, Turkey has reiterated its commitment to national security and takes a firm stance against Kurdish groups it designates as terrorists. With the shifting political landscape in Syria following Assad’s regime change, Turkey’s approach suggests a readiness to engage militarily if necessary. The ongoing support for Kurdish factions by the United States complicates an already tense situation, emphasizing the potential for further conflict unless diplomatic resolutions can be reached.

Original Source: www.euractiv.com