The American Wall Street Journal, citing American officials, revealed that intense Turkish military movements had been monitored near the Syrian city of Kobani, indicating the possibility of launching a military operation in the Kurdish areas. These movements included a large mobilization of Turkish artillery and forces, which alarmed American officials.
American mediation and faltering negotiations
The media center of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced the failure of American mediation efforts aimed at achieving a permanent truce in Manbij and Kobani. The statement attributed the reason to “Turkish evasion” in accepting the basic points of the mediation, especially with regard to the transfer of Manbij Military Council fighters and civilians to safe areas in northern and eastern Syria.
The Syrian position and the Kurdish situation
For his part, Obaida Arnaout, spokesman for the Department of Political Affairs in Syria, confirmed that the Kurds are an integral part of the Syrian fabric, stressing that the interim government will not allow the existence of any region outside its control. He added that the diversity in the Syrian social fabric represents a source of strength for the country.
Rising tensions and international concerns
According to Rami Abdel Rahman, director of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, indicators indicate Turkish preparations and factions loyal to it to launch an attack on Kobani. This comes in light of the complexities of the relationship between Washington and Ankara, as Turkey considers the Syrian Democratic Forces an extension of the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party, while the United States considers them a strategic partner in combating ISIS.
It is noteworthy that the region has witnessed important field developments recently, most notably the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army’s control of the strategic city of Manbij after violent battles, which reflects the escalation of tension in the region.
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