High-Level Turkish Delegation Engages in Talks in Damascus Regarding SDF

A senior Turkish delegation is set to visit Damascus on Monday for vital discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and navigating the future role of the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This move underscores Ankara's commitment to influencing security dynamics in northern Syria and safeguarding its national interests.

The delegation, featuring Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Defence Minister Yasar Guler, and intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin, will primarily focus on operationalizing an agreement for the integration of the SDF into Syrian state mechanisms.

These negotiations arrive at a pivotal moment as Syrian, Kurdish, and U.S. representatives are striving to showcase progress on the integration plan. However, Turkey claims the SDF has not adhered to critical timelines, raising concerns as a year-end deadline approaches.

Labelled a terrorist organization due to its ties with the PKK, which has long been in conflict with Turkey, the SDF's military capabilities pose a significant threat according to Ankara. Despite the SDF's partnership with the U.S. against the Islamic State, Turkey argues that maintaining its armed structure endangers its national security.

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed last week that Turkey continues to seek a peaceful solution without military intervention against the SDF, yet warned that resilience is waning. Turkey has previously engaged in cross-border military actions and is poised to respond if national security is compromised.

The synergy of the integration agreement is crucial for Ankara, intended to dismantle the SDF's independent command structure. Turkey asserts that any successful integration must ensure the SDF operates under full Syrian authority rather than as a separate entity.

Discussions indicate that Damascus is considering reorganizing the SDF's approximately 50,000 fighters into several subdivisions within the Syrian armed forces. This may require the SDF to relinquish segments of its command hierarchy and allow government forces into northeastern areas currently under its control.

Turkey connects the SDF dynamics to its broader peace and disarmament engagement with the PKK, insisting that all PKK-affiliated armed factions should disarm and dissolve, viewing the SDF as part of the overarching challenge.

Issues surrounding the SDF are not solely about territorial borders but extend to the integrity of Syria as a nation. Turkish authorities assert that any hindrance from the SDF in progressing the integration plan undermines both Turkish safety and Syria's sovereignty.

As the delegation arrives in Damascus, expectations are mounting, accompanied by heightened tensions. The results of these discussions could significantly influence the forthcoming chapters of Turkish-Syrian relations, determining whether dialogue or military action will dictate the future of northern Syria.