Turkey denies preparing new military operation in Syria
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Turkey’s Ministry of Defense on Friday dismissed widespread reports claiming that Ankara is preparing to launch new military operations inside Syrian territory, stating that the circulating information is “inaccurate” and does not reflect the government’s position.
The denial comes at a sensitive time as Turkish officials continue to comment on the future of relations with the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the path of integration outlined in the March 10 agreement. The deal, still under discussion, aims to reshape military structures in Syria amid broader efforts to stabilize the region and reorganize existing armed formations.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated that any potential integration should occur on an individual basis rather than by incorporating existing independent units or formations. According to Fidan, this condition is central to Ankara’s view of how future security arrangements should be structured. He called on the SDF to “adhere to the terms of the March 10 agreement and integrate all its fighters into a unified national army.”
From northern Syria, senior SDF commander Rohilat Afrin confirmed that negotiations connected to the agreement remain incomplete. She indicated that talks have not yet produced practical steps toward integration.
Afrin stressed that any integration process must begin with a “constitutional recognition of the existence and rights of all components in Syria.” She added that the SDF rejects joining the Syrian army as individual fighters and said the Syrian government “is slowing down and not responding to submitted proposals.”
She noted that while agreements reached behind closed doors “receive approval,” the situation on the ground “remains unchanged.” Afrin emphasized the importance of maintaining the autonomy of the Women’s Protection Units (YPJ) within any future military structure agreed upon by all parties.
Turkey’s rejection of the reported military preparations reduces the likelihood of near-term escalations along front lines where SDF forces routinely coordinate with international partners to maintain relative stability. Lebanese and regional channels have also reported quiet diplomatic exchanges aimed at preventing renewed clashes in northern Syria.