General Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the SDF, warned that ongoing Turkish airstrikes against Kurdish fighters could lead to a resurgence of ISIS in Syria if not halted. The SDF currently guards approximately 45,000 ISIS militants, but diminishing forces due to these attacks jeopardize operations. U.S. officials are working to mediate tensions as fear of instability grows amidst shifting power dynamics within Syria.
In a recent discussion with Fox News, General Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), expressed urgent concerns regarding the resurgence of ISIS if Turkish airstrikes against Kurdish positions continue. The SDF, a crucial ally of the U.S. in combating ISIS, is currently responsible for safeguarding approximately 45,000 ISIS militants along with their families in Eastern Syria. He criticized the ongoing Turkish military assaults, stating, “We are still under constant attack from the Turkish military and the Turkish-supported opposition which is called SNA.” Gen. Abdi reported that the pressure from these attacks hindered their counterterrorism operations significantly, leading to a reduced presence of fighters securing crucial prisons and camps.
The recent increase in hostilities from Turkey has dire implications, particularly following the change in power dynamics within Syria after December 8. Gen. Mazloum reported that a substantial number of guards from the Raqqa ISIS prison had been reassigned to prioritize family safety, thus diminishing the security around ISIS detainees. He emphasized the critical situation in which SDF’s operations now exist, stating, “If our Kurdish fighters have to flee, ISIS would return.” Meanwhile, U.S. officials reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the SDF against ISIS threats, highlighting coordination with Turkish leaders to mitigate these tensions.
Furthermore, Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent visit to Turkey aimed to foster dialogue on enhancing stability in Syria while ensuring that the coalition retains its focus on defeating ISIS. Recent airstrikes by U.S. forces added pressure on ISIS, targeting numerous locations of interest. In response to the Turkish military’s escalated aggression, the SDF has engaged in ceasefire negotiations in certain regions, although the overall threat remains significant, with predictions of an emerging civil conflict if government structures do not accommodate Syria’s diverse populations.
The backdrop to these concerns includes a complex military and political landscape in Syria, where Kurdish forces, primarily the SDF, have been instrumental in combating ISIS. The Turkish government views these Kurdish fighters as a terrorist threat due to their affiliations with banned groups. Increased hostilities from Turkey towards the SDF and its implications for security stability in the region have raised alarms, especially regarding the potential resurgence of ISIS fighters being held in various camps and prisons. Additionally, the situation has been further complicated by changing power dynamics within the Syrian government and the involvement of other international actors, including Russia and Iran.
In conclusion, General Mazloum Abdi’s warnings underscore the fragile state of security in Eastern Syria amidst Turkish assaults on Kurdish forces, which jeopardize ongoing counter-ISIS efforts. The current situation requires immediate attention from both U.S. and Turkish leaders to prevent the resurgence of extremist elements. As the SDF seeks to maintain stability and security for diverse communities, the region remains at a critical juncture that demands inclusive governance and collaborative international support to avert potential conflict and promote peace.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
