Abdullah Ocalan’s call for peace from the PKK could positively impact relations with Turkey and aid U.S. counter-ISIS efforts. While the SDF maintains its stance, ongoing Turkish military actions threaten security, particularly for prisons housing IS fighters. U.S. military presence in Syria is deemed essential to mitigate chaos amid the evolving situation with IS.
A recent statement from Abdullah Ocalan, the leader of the PKK, urges his followers to cease their armed struggle for an independent Kurdish state, aiming to foster peace with Turkey. This shift is viewed positively in Washington, where officials believe it may reduce tensions and aid efforts against the residual forces of the Islamic State (IS).
Brian Hughes, spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, emphasized the significance of Ocalan’s call for peace, expressing hope that it could alleviate concerns among Turkish allies regarding U.S. support for the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), who are seen as key partners in the fight against IS.
Historically, the U.S. has faced tension with Turkey over its backing of the SDF, which Ankara associates with the PKK. Despite this, the SDF affirmed their commitment to their cause, with their commanders stating that Ocalan’s directive only applies to the PKK and not to their operations in Syria.
General Mazloum Abdi, top commander of the SDF, acknowledged that peaceful relations between Turkey and the PKK could positively impact their own security situation, indicating that such developments would reduce justifications for Turkish military actions against Kurdish regions.
Abdi has raised concerns over Turkish military operations that threaten SDF-controlled areas and prisons holding IS fighters. Recent attacks by Turkish forces and affiliated militias have exacerbated security challenges, with the SDF striving to secure these prisons amid ongoing threats from IS.
The SDF leader warned that IS is increasingly active, exploiting the security vacuum following the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad’s regime. They are utilizing abandoned munitions and expanding their operations, demonstrating enhanced capabilities and conducting attacks on nearby cities.
A UN report corroborated these observations, noting that IS maintains a considerable presence and intent to regain territory across Syria and Iraq. Abdi stressed the importance of U.S. military presence in Syria, arguing that a withdrawal could trigger instability and chaos in the region.
Maintaining U.S. troop levels is seen as essential for regional stability, given the already existing security challenges. Abdi’s comments reflect a broader recognition of the interconnectedness of Kurdish-Turkish dynamics and the global fight against terrorism.
The recent call for peace from PKK leader Abdullah Ocalan represents a potential turning point in Kurdish-Turkish relations, with implications for the U.S. fight against the Islamic State. While the SDF remains committed to its objectives, the effectiveness of peace overtures may influence the operational landscape in Syria, particularly regarding IS activity and regional stability. The need for ongoing U.S. military support is emphasized as critical during this transitional period.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
