The imprisoned PKK leader, Abdullah Ocalan, has urged his followers to pursue peace instead of armed conflict, a move welcomed in Washington. The U.S. hopes this will ease tensions with Turkey and support efforts against ISIS. The SDF has committed to retaining arms despite the peace call while warning of an ISIS resurgence. General Abdi stresses the importance of U.S. military presence in Syria to maintain stability amid these changes.
There is renewed optimism in Washington regarding a potential truce between Turkey and the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). Abdullah Ocalan, the PKK’s imprisoned leader, has called on his followers to cease their long-standing campaign for an independent Kurdish state in favor of pursuing peace. This decision has the potential to change dynamics in the Middle East and alleviate tensions between the United States and Turkey concerning U.S. support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS).
Brian Hughes, a spokesman for the White House National Security Council, characterized Ocalan’s statement as a significant development that may promote peace in the region. He expressed hope that this shift could reassure Turkey regarding the U.S.-backed partners in northeastern Syria that are engaged in countering ISIS. Historically, U.S. support for the SDF has been contentious for Turkey, given the SDF’s links to the PKK.
The SDF leadership has echoed U.S. sentiments while firmly clarifying that their fighters will not disarm. General Mazloum Abdi articulated that the call for peace pertains exclusively to the PKK and does not correlate to their stance in Syria. He stated that improved relations between Turkey and the PKK could mitigate ongoing attacks against the SDF by Turkish forces and their allies.
Tensions are evidenced by past Turkish military action against the SDF, which has drawn the ire of U.S. officials. Previous incidents include a Turkish airstrike near U.S. forces in northeastern Syria, which prompted calls from the Pentagon for de-escalation. The SDF has also expressed concerns about Turkish incursions threatening the security of prisons housing captured ISIS fighters, which are under their control.
General Abdi noted that the SDF has been diligently securing these facilities despite ongoing threats from Turkish-backed militias and resurgent ISIS activities. Abdi emphasized that ISIS capitalizes on the unstable security situation arising from the collapse of the Assad regime, increasing their operational visibility and lethality in recent months.
The SDF leader pointed to ISIS’s possession of weapon caches previously held by Assad’s forces as a significant factor contributing to the terror group’s resurgence. Reports indicate that ISIS retains a fighting force of approximately 1,500 to 3,000 members, intent on regaining control of territories in Syria.
In light of these developments, General Abdi stressed the critical need for the United States to maintain its military presence in Syria, currently estimated at 2,000 troops. He warned that any withdrawal could result in chaos and further destabilization in the region, highlighting the vital role of U.S. forces in ensuring regional stability and security.
In conclusion, the recent call for peace from Abdullah Ocalan has created a glimmer of hope for easing tensions between Turkey and the PKK, potentially impacting U.S.-Turkey relations as it pertains to the fight against ISIS. The SDF remains cautious, asserting their independent status despite positive developments. With ISIS becoming more active, it is essential for U.S. military presence to continue in Syria to ensure stability and security in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
