Ankara: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan asserted that the YPG/SDF does not represent Syrian Kurds during an interview with Turkish news channel NTV. Fidan emphasized that the group is merely the Syrian branch of a larger illegal organization with political agendas across various regions. He stressed that Mazloum Abdi, the head of the SDF, is simply “a figure put on display” and reiterated the group’s ties to the PKK/KCK.
According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan highlighted the importance of removing non-Syrian PKK members from Syria as a gesture of goodwill. He also discussed the possibility of extending the current ceasefire, which began on January 20, during the transfer of ISIS prisoners from Syria to Iraq. This transfer, Fidan noted, requires maintaining the existing non-conflict environment due to the complex situation involving US forces and Daesh prisoners.
Fidan addressed potential operations by Damascus in regions like Ayn al-Arab, Hasakah, or Qamishli, stating that there is a process under US mediation to implement the January 18 agreement. He commented on the recent advances by Damascus against the YPG/SDF, which were expected given the withdrawal of US support and the uprising of Arabs in those regions.
The foreign minister also remarked on the alignment of US foreign policy under President Donald Trump with Trkiye’s regional stance, emphasizing the importance of Syria’s unity and the cultural identities of its minorities, ethnic groups, and religious communities. Fidan reiterated the need to understand the ‘terror-free Trkiye’ process, noting that merely refraining from terrorist acts within Trkiye does not ensure a terror-free environment.
Fidan further discussed developments in Gaza and the establishment of the Board of Peace, which focuses on resolving international conflicts. He indicated that the struggle in the region is now entering a phase where it will be addressed at the negotiating table. The Board of Peace is concentrating on Gaza as a priority, with the potential for expanding its scope as new members are admitted.
Regarding military assistance to Palestine, Fidan stated that while Turkey is prepared to provide aid if necessary conditions are met, efforts are currently focused on diplomatic solutions. He also addressed the issue of Hamas disarmament, which is part of an existing roadmap contingent on security, humanitarian aid, and international guarantees against further attacks.
On the topic of Iran, Fidan acknowledged past periods of protest and stressed that economic reactions should not be solely interpreted as regime opposition. He warned against regional instability, noting signs that Israel may be considering an attack on Iran, which could disrupt the healing process in Syria and Iraq.
Finally, Fidan commented on strategic interests in Greenland and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He pointed out that US ambitions regarding Greenland could lead to a rupture within NATO if perceived as territorial encroachment. Regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, he noted that peace efforts have made progress on paper but remain stuck on unresolved territorial issues.