Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has firmly stated that Turkey will not permit the formation of any separatist movements on its southern borders that could endanger its national security. During a session with his Justice and Development Party (AKP) parliamentary bloc in Ankara on Wednesday, 21 January, Erdogan emphasized that his country will not allow its interests to be compromised and will reject any entity threatening its stability.
Ankara’s Stance on Syrian Unity and Security
Addressing the assembly, Erdogan stated that Turkey “has defended from the beginning the existence of a Syrian state that preserves its territory and political unity,” clarifying that Ankara has no territorial ambitions regarding its neighbor’s land. He expressed approval for the recent accord reached between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Syrian government, warning that any provocations at this juncture would be “suicide.”
The Turkish leader made a clear distinction regarding regional identity, asserting that “the terrorist organization is one thing and the Kurds are another.” He further noted that no party, “here or there,” should be allowed to control the will of the people. Erdogan envisioned a future where Turks, Kurds, and Arabs resolve regional challenges collectively through “Islamic brotherhood,” which he described as their common bond throughout history. He added, “As long as the Republic of Turkey exists and is strong, there is no need for anyone to look for protectors or pursue other friends and partners.”
Diplomatic Consultations with Washington
On the international front, Erdogan shared details of a “fruitful” telephone conversation held on Tuesday with US President Donald Trump. Their discussion centered on factors that would “contribute to Syria’s security,” with a specific focus on collaborative efforts to combat the Islamic State. Similarly, Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler engaged in a phone call with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. According to Anadolu Agency, the two officials reviewed bilateral relations and regional defense issues, prioritizing the ongoing situation in Syria.
The Agreement Between Damascus and the SDF
Erdogan’s comments follow an announcement by the Syrian Presidency on Tuesday, 20 January, regarding a fresh understanding with the SDF concerning the future of al-Hasakah Governorate. As reported by the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), the SDF has been given a four-day deadline to deliberate on a comprehensive plan for integrating the region into the state framework.
Under the proposed terms, Syrian government forces will remain on the outskirts of Qamishli and al-Hasakah rather than entering the city centers. Furthermore, they will stay out of Kurdish-majority villages, which will instead be managed by local security personnel recruited from the resident population. As part of the transition, SDF commander Mazloum Abdi is expected to nominate individuals for the roles of deputy defense minister and al-Hasakah governor, as well as candidates for the People’s Assembly and various state institutions.
The two parties have agreed to incorporate all security and military branches of the SDF into the Syrian Ministries of Interior and Defense, though the specific mechanisms for this merger remain under discussion. Civil administration will also be brought under the central government’s authority. In exchange, the Presidency committed to Decree No. 13, which addresses Kurdish citizenship and linguistic rights, signaling “a shared commitment to building a unified and strong Syria based on national partnership and guaranteeing rights for all its components.”
Ceasefire and Ongoing Regional Tensions
Following the government’s declaration, the SDF confirmed its adherence to a ceasefire and stated it would refrain from military initiatives unless attacked. The group emphasized its openness to dialogue and political solutions, expressing readiness to proceed with the 18 January agreement to foster stability and de-escalation.
Despite these diplomatic steps, eastern Syria remains volatile. Enab Baladi’s correspondent reported that Syrian army members were killed recently in an explosion at an ammunition warehouse in the al-Yaarubiyah district. Damascus has accused the SDF of planting explosives in the depot prior to their withdrawal, advising civilians to avoid former SDF-held locations. Additionally, drone strikes targeted SDF positions on Mount Abdulaziz in the western al-Hasakah countryside, while artillery exchanges were reported on the Zarkan (Abu Rasin) front to the north.
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