Turkey Escalates Drone Operations in Rojava, Targets Critical Infrastructure

Jan. 11, 2025

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) - Turkish forces launched a drone strike against a power station in Gir Kendal village near Derik in Rojava (northeastern Syria) on Saturday, suggesting a significant escalation in Turkey's targeting of civilian infrastructure, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).

The attack on critical power infrastructure comes in the wake of a growing pattern of Turkish drone operations in the region.

Prior to the power station strike, Turkish forces carried out a targeted drone operation in Khan Jabal, resulting in two civilian casualties when their vehicle was struck.

Intelligence reports suggest Turkey has amassed specialized combat units for intensified operations in the region, indicating a coordinated strategic expansion of military activities in northeastern Syria.

Since the beginning of 2025, there have been 23 confirmed Turkish drone strikes in SDF-controlled territories.

The reports also indicated that 11 civilian fatalities and 21 non-combatant injuries have been documented.

The growing Turkish aggression also has resulted in targeting multiple civilian infrastructure.

This escalation embodies a noteworthy change in Turkish military strategy, extending beyond traditional military targets to include civilian infrastructure.

The targeting of power generation facilities shows a likely expansion of operational boundaries with severe humanitarian implications.

Turkey's recently increased military activities in northeastern Syria occur against the backdrop of prolonged tensions over regional autonomy and security concerns.

The systematic targeting of civilian infrastructure suggests a noticeable tactical maneuver that could considerably affect regional stability and civilian welfare.

The international community continues to monitor these developments, especially given the likely humanitarian repercussions of targeting key civilian infrastructure in conflict zones.