Mazloum Abdi, Commander-in-Chief of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has urged the people of northern Syria to bolster their resistance against Turkish attacks, which he says aim to dismantle the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).
Speaking on Friday, Abdi described recent Turkish airstrikes targeting civilians, infrastructure, and key services as an attempt to destabilise the region and displace its residents.
“For the past four days, the Turkish state has launched unjustified attacks against our regions,” Abdi stated, explaining that these strikes have killed 17 civilians and wounded 48 others. “These attacks target not only our military forces but also critical infrastructure and civilian areas.” Extending his condolences to the families of the deceased, Abdi urged intensified efforts to counter Turkish aggression and safeguard the AANES.
Abdi contended that Turkey’s long-term goal is to occupy more territory in Syria, asserting, “They have not and will not succeed in this endeavour.” He called on international actors, including the coalition forces and Russia, to increase pressure on Turkey, noting that their current responses are insufficient. Abdi highlighted that the AANES has strived to maintain balanced relations with all parties, refraining from provocation against Turkey.
Refuting Turkish claims linking recent attacks to an incident in Ankara, Abdi denied any involvement by SDF forces. “The Turkish state cannot provide any evidence to substantiate its claims,” he said, adding that the SDF has decided not to conduct any military operations on Turkish territory. He warned, however, that continued aggression could prompt the SDF to intensify its response.
Abdi concluded by calling on the people to resist Turkey’s “black propaganda” and unite in defence of the AANES, which he said has been built “with the blood of our people’s sons and daughters.” He assured that the SDF remains committed to protecting northern Syria from these attacks.
