The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) strongly denounced the recent surge in aggressive actions by Turkish forces in northern and eastern Syria in an official statement issued on Thursday.
Innocent civilians, including women and children, have fallen victim to these acts of terrorism, the SDF said, highlighting the targeted regions of Shahba (Şehba), which host displaced individuals from Afrin (Êfrin), along with Manbij (Minbîc), Ain Issa (Ayn Îsa), and Jazeera (Cizre). Three individuals have lost their lives, and four others, including two children, have sustained injuries due to these recent attacks.
According to the SDF, Turkey’s calculated aggression has been in the works for an extended period, awaiting opportune conditions, which have been facilitated by the negligence of international parties and organisations in addressing the accumulated crimes committed by Turkish forces and its affiliated groups on Syrian territories. These crimes are specifically targeted against the people of northern and eastern Syria. Moreover, the SDF statement claims that Turkey actively supports and sponsors terrorist organisations, including ISIS cells and other criminal factions within areas under its control.
Contrary to Turkey’s claims about an attack on their forces, the SDF sees this as a strategic ploy to weaken all national forces opposing Turkey’s aggressive plans and discourage them from further confrontation. The SDF emphasises that it is crucial for all Syrian parties to recognise that the weakening of their forces ultimately serves to facilitate Turkey’s encroachment on Syrian territory and influence sovereign decisions, both current and future.
Acknowledging the challenging circumstances, the SDF commended the resilience and determination of their fighters, as well as the unwavering support from the people of northern and eastern Syria. The statement declares that the continuation of Turkey’s aggression and crimes will not go unanswered.
