Türkiye blames SDF for undermining Syria’s unity, violating pact

A Turkish defence source has accused the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) of failing to uphold a deal struck with the Syrian government earlier this year, under which the group agreed to disarm and integrate into state institutions.

Speaking to reporters in Ankara on August 7, the source said the SDF’s recent actions, including reported attacks on government positions near Manbij and Aleppo, were undermining Syria’s sovereignty, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

“It has not escaped our attention that the SDF terrorist organisation's voice has become louder, empowered by the clashes in Syria's south,” the official said, referring to last month’s fighting between Druze and Bedouin groups.

“The SDF terrorist organisation's attacks in the outskirts of Manbij and Aleppo against the Syrian government in recent days damage Syria's political unity and territorial integrity,” the source added.

The recent violence in Syria’s southern Suwayda province reflects long-standing tensions between the Druze community and Sunni Bedouin tribes. What began in mid-July as a local dispute—reportedly involving a Bedouin tribesman and a Druze vendor—quickly escalated into armed clashes, fuelled by historical grievances and mutual distrust.

Analysts say such tensions have been exacerbated by past regimes, and the latest violence was further inflamed by accusations that government forces sided with Bedouin fighters. Over several days, hundreds were killed and tens of thousands displaced, as militias exchanged fire in towns and rural areas.

In response, the transitional Syrian government deployed troops, while Israel carried out limited strikes, citing the need to protect Druze communities. Despite efforts to restore calm, ceasefires remain fragile, and humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate.

By Aghakazim Guliyev