In an interview, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), Mazloum Abdi, stated that recent Turkish attacks on areas in northeastern Syria have "crossed the line of retaliation," targeting several service centers and causing significant harm to the local economy.
Abdi explained that Turkey's repeated accusations against his forces, claiming links with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and carrying out attacks from within Syria, are "justifications Turkey has used for years to legitimize its military interventions." He added that the SDF operates solely within Syrian territory and does not conduct offensive operations against Turkey. He denied claims that the recent attack in Ankara was linked to the SDF, pointing out that the PKK had claimed responsibility for the attack.
Abdi expressed that dialogue is the solution, voicing his willingness for peaceful negotiations. He also mentioned that certain parties, including the international coalition, are attempting to mediate between the SDF and Turkey to de-escalate tensions whenever there is an escalation.
Abdi also addressed the SDF's concerns over Turkey’s attempts to normalize relations with the Syrian regime, stating that this approach will not achieve the desired stability if it aims to dismantle the "Autonomous Administration" in northeastern Syria. He emphasized that a comprehensive reconciliation requires a political solution to address the region’s underlying issues.
Abdi noted that the SDF works jointly with the international coalition, particularly the United States, to combat the ongoing threat posed by ISIS. He warned that "the ISIS threat persists and will continue, as certain conditions contribute to its endurance. ISIS faces no financial issues, can easily recruit new fighters, operates training camps in the Palmyra desert in central Syria, and enjoys support in certain areas."
He concluded by saying that ISIS has benefited from recent conflicts in the Middle East, intensifying its attacks. However, joint operations with the international coalition have contributed to stability in their regions, according to Abdi.
Local sources reported that recent Turkish airstrikes targeted several vital SDF-linked sites in northeastern Syria. Among the targets bombed by Turkish air forces were a recruitment center in Qamishli, a military site near a dairy factory in the Al-Malikiyah (Derik) area, a military garage, a weapons depot in Amuda, and a center for military construction and tunnels in Tal Tamr in northern rural Hasakah.
