General Mazloum Abdi warns that continued Turkish military operations against the SDF could lead to a resurgence of ISIS in Syria. Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, Turkish attacks have intensified, impairing SDF operations against ISIS, which currently guards thousands of militants. U.S. involvement remains critical, and inclusive governance is essential to prevent further conflict.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News, General Mazloum Abdi, the commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), has issued a stark warning regarding the resurgence of the Islamic State (ISIS) amid ongoing Turkish military operations against Kurdish forces in Syria. Despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement, Turkish assaults continue, with General Abdi stating that his forces face daily drone attacks and artillery fire that significantly impede their counterterrorism efforts. He expressed concern that if Kurdish fighters are compelled to withdraw due to these pressures, ISIS could re-emerge more powerfully than before.
As the SDF’s capability to guard approximately 45,000 ISIS militants and their families diminishes due to troop withdrawals, the situation at various facilities, including the Raqqa prison housing 1,000 ISIS ex-fighters, has been rendered precarious. Gen. Abdi noted that half the personnel responsible for securing these camps have been reassigned to protect their families, further compromising the security of the facilities.
With 900 U.S. troops stationed in Eastern Syria, any retreat by Kurdish forces could necessitate a broader U.S. withdrawal, leading to a significant power vacuum. National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby confirmed efforts to maintain a focus on counter-ISIS missions while engaging with both SDF and Turkish officials. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, reiterating the importance of respecting human rights amid ongoing hostilities.
General Erik Kurilla of CENTCOM, following discussions with Gen. Abdi, assured continued U.S. commitment to preventing ISIS from regaining influence in Syria. In light of these developments, the SDF has agreed to a truce with Turkey-backed opposition forces to safeguard civilian safety. However, General Abdi fears that a lack of inclusive governance in Syria could lead to civil conflict, emphasizing the need for representation of all ethnic groups, particularly the Kurdish people, in any new political framework.
The article highlights the ongoing tensions between the Turkish military and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), particularly in the context of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that has failed to curtail Turkish aggression. The General’s warning signifies the fragile status of security regarding ISIS prisoners and the critical implications of the U.S. military presence in the region. This situation has been exacerbated by recent offensives following significant political changes in Syria, heightening fears of a potential resurgence of terrorist groups if the SDF is weakened or retreats. The U.S. attempts to mediate between their allies, the SDF, and Turkey, reflect broader strategic interests in managing regional stability and counterterrorism efforts.
In summary, General Mazloum Abdi’s warnings serve as a critical reminder of the potential resurgence of ISIS in the face of Turkish military aggression and the diminishing capabilities of the SDF. The ongoing balance of power is precarious, with the U.S. playing a central role in facilitating ceasefire negotiations and maintaining counterterrorism operations. The future stability of Syria and the surrounding region hinges on inclusive governance that respects the diverse ethnic composition of the country and effectively addresses the security challenges posed by extremist factions.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
