Turkey welcomes SDF dissolution, integration into Syrian institutions
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Turkey’s National Defense Ministry on Thursday welcomed the dissolution of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and their integration into Syrian state institutions, describing the move as an important step toward preserving Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The ministry said the development would reinforce the principle of “one state, one army” in Syria.
The remarks came during the ministry’s weekly press briefing in the central Turkish province of Afyonkarahisar, in response to a question about the SDF’s dissolution and integration into state institutions.
“Within the framework of the existing military cooperation agreement, our Turkish Armed Forces will continue to support efforts to extend the positive momentum achieved in Syria across the country,” the ministry said.
It added that Turkey would support efforts to ensure lasting stability in Syria and strengthen the capabilities of the Syrian army, particularly in combating terrorism.
The ministry also said it was closely monitoring Israeli attacks on Syria and stressed that such attacks “must end as soon as possible.”
Turkey is also following U.S. efforts to establish a de-escalation mechanism involving Syria, according to the ministry.
The comments come as Damascus and the SDF work toward implementing arrangements for integrating SDF forces and civilian institutions into the Syrian state.
The SDF, a Kurdish-led military alliance formed in 2015, has played a central role in the fight against the Islamic State (ISIS) in northeastern Syria and has maintained control over large parts of the region.
The integration process is part of broader efforts to resolve political, military and administrative issues between Damascus and the authorities in northeastern Syria.