U.S. urges de-escalation amid rising tensions in Northern Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The U.S. Department of State voiced on Thursday serious concerns regarding escalating tensions in northern and northeastern Syria by Turkey. This response followed exclusive inquiries from North Press.
“We are aware of the reports and are closely monitoring developments in northeastern Syria,” an official of the State Department told North Press, highlighting concerns about ongoing military activity in the region.
The official expressed particular alarm over the impact on civilians, infrastructure, and ongoing efforts to ensure the lasting defeat of ISIS.
The State Department emphasized, “We continue to urge de-escalation and the protection of civilians.”
Crucially, the U.S. urged all parties to respect ceasefire zones, avoid violence, and prioritize stability to support a political solution to the ongoing Syrian conflict.
Earlier, a U.S. patrol toured oil facilities affected by Turkish shelling in the countryside of al-Malikiyah (Derik) in the far-northeast Syria.
Early Thursday morning, Turkish forces launched a series of airstrikes on multiple towns and cities across northern and northeastern Syria, including Tel Rifaat, Manbij, Kobani, and Qamishli.
According to the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), 12 civilians, including two children, were killed in the strikes, and 25 others were injured.