Turkish top diplomat criticizes US justifications for Syrian presence

In an interview on CNN Türk, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan addressed the role of the United States in Syria, particularly highlighting the shifting justifications for its presence in the region, per Caliber.Az.

“America is ensuring its presence in Syria under various excuses,” Fidan remarked. “Nowadays, 85 per cent of the excuses they used to develop, especially during President Biden's administration, have disappeared. They used the Iranian and Russian presence as an excuse. Now the issue of ISIS is coming up. They are raising the issue of fighting ISIS.”

Fidan pointed out that Türkiye has been actively involved in the fight against ISIS, and noted that the Turkish-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (RCC) have been providing prison services for ISIS captives. “Many Europeans among the foreigners captured while fighting ISIS were not allowed to enter their countries, so their 'custody' was handled by the PKK,” he explained.

The Turkish Foreign Minister stressed that the newly established Syrian government is prepared to take control of ISIS fighters, urging the international community to rethink the protection of the PKK/YPG forces under the guise of fighting ISIS. “Many countries, including Türkiye, are fighting against ISIS. It is wrong to use this as an excuse to protect the PKK/YPG,” Fidan emphasized.

When asked about potential counterterrorism operations, Fidan confirmed Türkiye's readiness to act. “We have conducted such operations and we will repeat them if necessary. This is our responsibility. We are obliged to ensure the stability and security of our people. This issue is not even under discussion.”

Fidan warned that Türkiye would launch a military operation against the Syrian branch of the PKK, the YPG, if its leadership refused to disband. “We will do what’s necessary, and it is a military operation,” he declared.

He reiterated Türkiye's position: “We have repeatedly said that the PKK/YPG terrorists must disband themselves if they want a peaceful transition in Syria.”

Fidan further added that foreign fighters who joined the PKK/YPG must leave Syria, and the group must disarm and join the newly established Syrian army. “This is a bloodless, problem-free transition,” he said.

Addressing US involvement, Fidan remarked, “The ultimatum we gave them [the YPG] through the Americans is obvious.” He reaffirmed Türkiye’s longstanding discontent over US support for the YPG, an offshoot of the PKK, a group designated as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the EU, and the US The PKK has been responsible for over 40,000 deaths in Türkiye, including women and children.

By Tamilla Hasanova