Mazloum Abdi, commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which is designated a terrorist organisation by Turkey, has called for the resolution of disputes with Turkey through dialogue. In a press conference, Abdi outlined the SDF’s stance on regional security, political solutions and the situation in northern Syria.
Abdi revealed indirect lines of communication with Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and focused on security in Aleppo and other areas. He highlighted the new military and political realities in Syria and reiterated the SDF’s willingness to participate in broader discussions on a solution. Abdi also stressed their readiness to protect northeastern Syria and defend against any potential aggression, including the threats to Manbij (Minbic) and other regions.
He acknowledged gaps in the SDF’s security measures in Raqqa (Rêqa) and Deir ez-Zor (Dêrazor) that have been exploited by hostile elements. Nevertheless, he assured the local population that there were sufficient forces to protect them, and urged them to rally around the SDF.
On ISIS, Abdi noted that there was continued coordination with the international coalition to counter its resurgence. He confirmed efforts to secure areas such as Deir ez-Zor, Tabqa and Raqqa. The SDF is also working to evacuate civilians from the majority Kurdish Sheikh Maqsoud (Şêx Maqsud) and Ashrafiyah (Eşrefîye) neighbourhoods in Aleppo, with support from the US-led coalition.
While preferring dialogue to conflict, Abdi warned that any aggression would be met with effective resistance and reiterated the SDF’s readiness to respond.
