Turkish Foreign Minister Accuses YPG of Collaborating with Israel Amid Concerns Over Syrian Unity

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan accused the Syrian Democratic Forces (YPG) on Thursday of collaborating with Israel, asserting that their actions in Aleppo heighten Ankara's fears about separatist ambitions that threaten Syria's unity and security.

During a press conference in Ankara alongside his Omani counterpart, Fidan highlighted Turkey's deep concerns regarding what he described as "YPG attacks on civilians in Aleppo," emphasizing that such actions hinder efforts for national peace and stability in the region.

Fidan urged the Syrian Democratic Forces to renounce their terrorist and separatist positions, reiterating Turkey's commitment to fostering peace and stability in Syria and its rejection of armed groups operating outside state authority.

Direct Accusations of External Collaboration

Fidan stated, "The actions of the YPG and their dealings with various issues, as well as their integration into institutions, clearly indicate that they receive directives from external actors," adding that "the Syrian Democratic Forces coordinate and collaborate with Israel."

The Turkish Foreign Minister asserted that no nation accepts the existence of armed groups acting independently within its territory, reflecting Ankara's stance against any armed entity outside the framework of the Syrian state.

Turkey's Support for the Syrian Process in Aleppo

In this context, the Turkish Defense Ministry announced on Thursday that the Syrian government is conducting an operation in Aleppo aimed at combating terrorism to ensure security and stability, confirming that the Syrian armed forces are fully executing the operation.

A spokesperson for the ministry stated, "Turkey supports Syria in its fight against terrorist organizations based on the principle of Syrian unity and territorial integrity," emphasizing that Ankara will provide all necessary assistance if requested by Damascus. He added, "The security of Syria is our security, and we are closely monitoring developments on the ground."