Doha: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has voiced strong criticism against the integration efforts of the PKK/YPG terrorist organization, which is operating in Syria under the name of SDF, into the Syrian army, arguing that the group's primary aim is to target Trkiye.
According to Anadolu Agency, during a 'Newsmaker Interview' session at the 23rd Doha Forum in Qatar's capital, Fidan emphasized the need for non-Syrian elements within the SDF, particularly those from Iraq, Iran, and Trkiye, to be removed immediately. He stated that these elements are solely positioned to fight against Trkiye. Fidan underscored Syria's critical importance to Trkiye, indicating that developments in Syria and Iraq have direct implications for Trkiye.
Fidan further elaborated on Trkiye's position, explaining that while the country is willing to shoulder certain burdens, the humanitarian crisis in Syria has become unbearable. This situation led President Erdogan to implement an open-door policy, allowing millions escaping the Assad regime to enter Trkiye. He highlighted the support Iran and Russia have provided to the Syrian regime and noted the diminished international backing for the Syrian opposition, leaving Trkiye and Qatar largely isolated.
The Turkish Foreign Minister also touched upon the complex nature of the SDF's negotiations with the Syrian regime, stressing the need for genuine engagement and a shared vision. He cautioned that if the SDF pursues a symbolic integration process without real steps, it will lack credibility. Fidan reflected on past negotiations with the PKK, emphasizing the potential for history to repeat itself due to the situation in Syria.
In a broader context, Fidan expressed Trkiye's readiness to fully support Palestine, even considering the deployment of troops to the International Stabilization Force (ISF). He noted Trkiye's collaboration with Indonesia, Azerbaijan, and other Muslim and Arab countries on this issue. Fidan also called for US President Trump's involvement, expecting discussions with Netanyahu, and underscored the need for international action against Israeli violations and systematic torture of Palestinian detainees.
Addressing the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Fidan revealed that Trkiye has engaged in discussions with both countries regarding attacks on ships in the Black Sea, warning that targeting trade routes could escalate the war. He also commented on the US national security strategy's implications for NATO, highlighting Europe's longstanding debates on security architecture.
The Doha Forum, Fidan noted, plays a significant role in addressing regional issues, with Qatar emerging as a global mediator. He praised the growing partnership between Trkiye and Qatar, emphasizing their collaboration in resolving conflicts worldwide.