Turkey Expresses Concern over Clashes between Kurdish-Led Forces in Syria
Turkey has condemned the recent clashes between the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and Arab tribal elements in the Deir ez-Zor countryside. The Turkish Foreign Ministry expressed its concern over these clashes, emphasizing its opposition to the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) due to its links to the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). The PKK has been engaged in a long-standing insurgency in southeastern Turkey.
The SDF, which serves as the de facto army for the semi-autonomous Kurdish administration in northeastern Syria, played a vital role in supporting the US-led coalition against the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). However, Turkey views the YPG as a terrorist organization and accuses it of trying to subjugate the native peoples of Syria through violence, oppression, and human rights violations.
Latest situation in the Deir ez Zour Conflict
Tribal Forces captured almost all settlements east of Deir ez-Zor along the Euphrates River to the Iraqi border
Information by @DeirEzzore
HD: https://t.co/kTg73Kgfil pic.twitter.com/SfGrBgOc46
— Levent Kemal (@leventkemaI) September 2, 2023
In response to the clashes, Syria’s Kurdish-led authorities have implemented a curfew in the eastern province of Deir ez-Zor. The tension escalated after the SDF arrested the chief of the Deir ez-Zor Military Council, an Arab armed group affiliated with the Kurdish force. This arrest triggered clashes that have resulted in numerous casualties.
Reports indicate that Iran-backed Arab fighters took advantage of the situation and crossed over from government-held areas into two Kurdish-controlled villages. Clashes between these fighters and local Kurdish-led forces ensued, with the leader of the Iran-backed fighters urging Arab tribes to turn against Kurdish authorities.
The United States has called for all parties involved to de-escalate the situation and find a peaceful resolution. The US military’s Operation Inherent Resolve, which supports the fight against ISIL, emphasized the importance of focusing on efforts to bring peace and stability to northeast Syria.
The SDF, with backing from the US, successfully defeated ISIL’s self-declared caliphate in Syria in 2019. They currently control a semi-autonomous Kurdish zone in northeast Syria and have a significant presence in the Deir ez-Zor province.
Press Statement Regarding Developments in the Countryside of Deir ez-Zor https://t.co/Qu9G6kmDQQ pic.twitter.com/cwK1m0QoWf
— Turkish MFA (@MFATurkiye) September 1, 2023
The reasons behind the arrest of the head of the Deir ez-Zor Military Council have not been disclosed, though it is believed that he was involved in lucrative smuggling activities. The clashes have led to the deaths of 54 people, including supporters of the arrested council head, SDF members, and six civilians.
It is worth noting that during Syria’s ongoing war, which began in 2011, over half a million people have lost their lives. The conflict has attracted foreign powers and jihadist insurgents, further exacerbating the situation.
The escalation of clashes between the Kurdish-led forces and Arab tribal elements remains a source of concern as it threatens stability in the region. It is crucial for all parties involved to take steps towards de-escalation and finding a peaceful resolution to avoid further loss of life and devastation.
