Farhad Shamî, press spokesperson for the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) has made a statement saying that the SDF will defend the people against Hayat Tahrir al-Shams (HTS). HTS was formerly known as the Al-Nusra Front.
Today, HTS entered the city of Aleppo, killing civilians and shelling Aleppo’s university. There are increasing concerns about the safety of the civilians in the Kurdish neighbourhoods of Eşrefiye and Shasmeqsûd in Aleppo, and fears that the Turkey-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) will use the cover of the HTS operation to attack Kurdish forces in Tel-Rifaat and Ein-Issa.
Shamî stated that the attack in Aleppo was planned and coordinated by the Turkish state. He said that, by using groups like HTS, the Turkish state is trying to prevent peace in Syria and “realise its long-term occupation plans”. According to Shamî, the attacks are being carried out step by step and in an organised manner.
Farhad Shamî said that the SDF’s primary goal is to protect the people and the region, adding, “No matter who plans what, our only duty is to ensure the defense of our people.”
