Turkish foreign minister demands non-Syrian militants leave SDF for Northern Syria stability

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has issued a strong demand for the removal of foreign fighters from the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) as a prerequisite for any stable political process in northern Syria. Speaking at the Doha Forum, Fidan labeled the SDF as an extension of the PKK and insisted that militants from Türkiye, Iraq, and Iran must leave Syria immediately.

A Key Condition for Regional Security

Fidan asserted that certain elements within the SDF are "solely positioned to fight against Türkiye," posing a direct threat to Ankara's national security. He argued that any integration of the group into the Syrian army must begin with the expulsion of these non-Syrian fighters. The minister warned that if the SDF's engagement with Damascus is merely symbolic and lacks genuine steps, it will not be credible or sustainable.

Türkiye's Readiness for Gaza Role and Critique of Israel

Shifting focus to Palestine, Fidan expressed Türkiye's willingness to participate in an International Stabilization Force (ISF) for Gaza, noting that its involvement could lend legitimacy to the mission. He sharply criticized "indescribable" daily ceasefire violations by Israel and called for urgent US engagement, suggesting President Trump should have "a good discussion with Netanyahu" to prevent the peace process from collapsing.

Broader Diplomatic Context and Warnings

Fidan also addressed other regional flashpoints, cautioning that attacks on Black Sea trade routes could dangerously escalate the Russia-Ukraine war. He praised Qatar's evolution into a global mediator and reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership between Ankara and Doha. Throughout his remarks, Fidan positioned Türkiye as a key security stakeholder seeking tangible, good-faith steps from all parties in both the Syrian and Palestinian contexts.