Türkiye prepares for potential operation against PKK/YPG in Syria

Türkiye is intensifying its preparations for a potential military operation against the PKK/YPG terrorist organization in Syria, emphasizing its goal of a “terror-free Türkiye.”

As part of this initiative, military units along the border have been placed on high alert, while diplomatic channels remain active to address the situation with Syria’s new transitional government.

Türkiye has communicated its demands for concrete steps against the PKK/YPG to the transitional leadership in Syria, led by Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Officials in Ankara have stated that they are prepared for all scenarios to ensure the organization’s removal according to a report published by Türkiye daily.

Two-phase plan to eliminate PKK/YPG

The strategy for eliminating the PKK/YPG involves two phases.

In the first phase, non-Syrian PKK members originating from Türkiye, Iran, Iraq and Europe will be required to leave Syria unconditionally.

In the second phase, all YPG so-called commanders, including Syrian nationals, will be expelled. Syrian citizens affiliated with the organization will disarm, with decisions about their integration into the new system left to Syrian authorities.

Ankara’s preference remains a peaceful transition without bloodshed. However, preparations for a military operation are underway as Türkiye monitors developments and awaits action from Syrian authorities.

Military units on alert amid border tensions

The Ministry of National Defense reported nearly 100 provocations and attacks against Turkish units in the region within the past week.

Military precautions have been reinforced across operational zones, and troops along the border have been placed on standby for any developments.

Minister of National Defense Yasar Guler recently inspected border installations and reviewed operational readiness alongside senior military officials. Concurrently, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Türkiye’s commitment to eliminating PKK/YPG during meetings with international counterparts.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan also reiterated this stance in talks with the Kurdish Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, stressing the importance of regional stability.

Türkiye challenges US arguments on Daesh

Ankara continues to counter U.S. claims that PKK/YPG is essential in combating Daesh. Officials argue that the PKK/YPG’s role in guarding Daesh prisoners serves U.S. interests and is no longer justified, especially as Syria’s transitional government is ready to assume control of these responsibilities.

Türkiye has conveyed its willingness to oversee the detention of Daesh terrorists, if necessary.

The issue of foreign Daesh terrorist members, particularly European nationals whose home countries refuse to accept their return, remains a point of contention.

SNA reinforces frontlines against PKK/YPG

The Syrian National Army (SNA) has ramped up its military preparations in the Peace Spring Operation zone, deploying heavy weaponry and fighters to frontlines near PKK/YPG positions.

The SNA commander confirmed heightened alert levels and increased deployments to key positions in Ras al-Ain and Tell Abyad, areas cleared of PKK/YPG control during Türkiye’s 2019 operation.