Turkish FM: SDF Must Dissolve Before We Launch a Military Operation
Hakan Fidan emphasized that Ankara will not tolerate the continued presence of SDF forces in Syria.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has issued a firm warning, stating that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) must dissolve itself before Turkey launches a military operation against it.
Turkey Threatens Military Action Against SDF
Speaking to a press conference on Thursday, Fidan emphasized that Ankara will not tolerate the continued presence of SDF forces in Syria, stressing that Turkey is ready to take military action unless the group disbands.
Fidan also addressed Israel’s regional influence, asserting that Tel Aviv seeks to weaken all Arab and Islamic nations to prevent them from defending their sovereignty and borders. He described this as a serious threat to regional stability.
Turkey’s Role in European Security
Touching on broader security issues, Fidan stated that Turkey is ready to play a role in Europe's security architecture if NATO fails to provide adequate protection. He suggested that Ankara may align itself with a new European security framework beyond NATO if necessary.
Turkey’s Stance on Syria’s Interim Leader Ahmed al-Sharaa
Regarding Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa, Fidan acknowledged that Sharaa’s governance in Idlib reflects a shift in perspective, recognizing that life cannot be solely defined by conflict. He also claimed that Turkey previously had no intelligence suggesting that Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) would attack the Syrian regime, implying a change in Ankara’s understanding of the situation.
As tensions rise, Israel has made it clear that it will not tolerate the presence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) or any other armed factions affiliated with "Ankara-backed authorities" in Damascus. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently demanded a full demilitarization of the region, adding another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation.
Fidan’s remarks underscore the shifting dynamics in Syria, where Turkey, Israel, and other regional powers are maneuvering for influence as the country undergoes a dramatic political transformation.
