Israeli media claims that the disarmament of the PKK may threaten its national interests by altering power dynamics in Syria, which could challenge Israel’s influence in the region. The discussions follow a ceasefire declared by the PKK and raise concerns about U.S. policy towards the YPG and potential collaboration with Damascus.
Recent reports from Israeli media suggest that the PKK’s decision to disarm could jeopardize Israel’s national interests. Analysts from Haaretz have indicated that this potential ceasefire may disrupt the power dynamics in Syria, posing a challenge to Israel’s position in the region. The current openness of Syrian airspace to Israel, a situation that has been maintained through coordination with Russia, is at risk due to Turkey’s growing influence in the area.
The analysis highlights the possibility that the PKK’s Syrian branch, the YPG, could lose backing from the United States, thus becoming more compliant to Syria’s directives. Should this occur, it is anticipated that Turkey might retract its presence from safe zones established in northern Syria. This would leave Israel in a precarious standing as an occupying entity in southern Syria.
In addition, Channel 14 reported that these developments signal the advent of a significant transitional phase, while Yedioth Ahronoth emphasized that a potential agreement between the YPG and the Syrian government may compel Turkey to alter its foreign policy. The Jerusalem Post echoed these sentiments, predicting that any shift in U.S. policy towards Syria could obligate the PKK to collaborate with the Damascus administration.
The backdrop of these concerns follows the PKK announcing a ceasefire with Turkey, inspired by a call from its leader Abdullah Öcalan for the disbandment of the organization after decades of armed conflict. Recent discussions led by the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party (DEM Party) have urged the PKK to dissolve its weaponry and formalize its exit through a congress.
Moreover, Robert Ford, a former U.S. ambassador to Syria, articulated in Foreign Affairs magazine that the United States could assist Syria by withdrawing its troops and collaborating with the new government in efforts against Daesh. In his perspective, post-Bashar Assad’s regime, the U.S. should establish partnerships with more effective local entities rather than the YPG.
Ford stressed the importance of local support and underscored the need for dialogue between the Trump administration and Damascus regarding the positioning of Syrian forces against Daesh. He advocated for the gradual dissolution of the SDF, pointing out that genuine democracy in Syria must evolve through local means without direct American intervention.
In summary, these developments surrounding the PKK’s potential disarmament have broad implications for regional dynamics, influencing Turkey’s relations and Israel’s strategic interests within Syria. The call for a ceasefire by Öcalan, supported by U.S. diplomatic shifts, could transform the geopolitical landscape significantly, necessitating careful observation and response from Israel and its allies.
The discourse among Israeli media regarding the PKK’s alleged disarmament highlights significant concerns about shifting power dynamics in Syria, particularly in relation to Israel’s airspace and regional influence. The evolving situation necessitates careful monitoring, as it could redefine relationships among the PKK, YPG, Damascus, and international actors such as the United States. Consequently, the future of regional stability and security remains uncertain in light of these potential developments.
Original Source: www.dailysabah.com
