Türkiye demands SDF compliance with Syria agreement

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated Friday that Türkiye expects the YPG/SDF, which it designates as a terrorist organization, to comply with its commitments under a March 10, 2025, agreement for integration into Syrian state institutions.

Speaking at a joint foreign and defense ministers meeting with Indonesia in Ankara, Fidan emphasized that ensuring public order in Syria is crucial for regional stability and that the counter-terrorism fight must continue effectively. He confirmed he had recently held discussions with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan al-Shaibani on the matter.

Security and Territorial Integrity in Syria

Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler echoed this stance, affirming that Türkiye views Syria's security as its own and continues to support Damascus in its fight against terrorist groups, as well as its national unity and territorial integrity. The March agreement, announced by the Syrian presidency, was intended to facilitate the SDF's incorporation into official state structures, thereby reinforcing Syria's territorial unity. However, authorities have noted that the SDF has since failed to demonstrate meaningful efforts to meet the terms of the deal, amid broader security efforts by Syria's post-Assad government.

Regional Crises and Gaza Priority

The ministers discussed several regional conflicts, with the situation in Palestine and Gaza identified as a top priority. Fidan highlighted that both nations are members of the OIC-Arab League contact group on Gaza and have collaborated closely over the past two years. He argued that the experience demonstrates Islamic nations can achieve tangible progress when they show initiative and sincerity in addressing regional issues. The talks also covered developments in Yemen, Somalia, Sudan, and Syria.