Ankara – Tensions are escalating between Turkey and Kurdish groups in northern Syria, with Ankara hinting at a potential military intervention following a series of cross-border attacks. Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesman Öncü Keçeli issued a strongly worded statement today, expressing deep concern over escalating attacks originating from Tel Rifat and Manbij, areas controlled by Kurdish-led forces.
Keçeli stated that these attacks, targeting both civilians and Turkish territory, are becoming increasingly frequent and concerning. He pointed to the failure of previous agreements with stakeholders to eliminate what Turkey designates as terrorist elements in these regions as a key factor contributing to the escalating violence.
“We closely monitor the increasing attacks by terrorist groups in Tel Rifat and Manbij targeting civilians and Türkiye,” Keçeli said. “The failure to implement agreements with stakeholders to eliminate terrorism in these areas heightens our concerns.”
The spokesman emphasized Turkey’s commitment to maintaining stability in Idlib and surrounding areas along its border. He warned that recent attacks on Idlib are jeopardizing the spirit and functionality of the Astana agreements, a framework established by Turkey, Russia, and Iran aimed at de-escalating the Syrian conflict.
“Maintaining stability in Idlib and nearby regions, at our border’s zero point, remains a priority for Türkiye,” Keçeli affirmed. “We have warned on various international platforms that the recent attacks on Idlib have reached a level that would undermine the spirit and functioning of the Astana agreements.”
While stopping short of explicitly confirming an imminent incursion, Keçeli’s statement was interpreted by many analysts as a clear warning to Kurdish forces and their international backers. Turkey has conducted several military operations in northern Syria in recent years, targeting Kurdish groups it links to the PKK, a designated terrorist organization. Any new incursion risks further destabilizing the region and complicating the already complex Syrian conflict. The international community is now watching closely for further developments.