Kurdish-led SDF Repels Turkish Militants in Syria, Vows to “Halt” Ankara’s Ambitions

The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have pushed back Ankara-backed militants near the Tishrin Dam, a key hydroelectric source east of Aleppo, according to SDF spokesperson Farhad al-Shami. The SDF destroyed a Turkish-backed tank near Manbij and reclaimed four villages close to the strategic dam after overnight clashes, as reported by the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Ruken Jamal, spokesperson for the Women’s Protection Unit under the SDF, stated that their fighters are now just over 11 kilometers (seven miles) from Manbij's center. She accused Turkey of trying to weaken Kurdish influence in discussions about Syria’s political future by using these attacks as a distraction. The SDF remains committed to resisting Ankara's ambitions while staying involved in shaping Syria's future.

Al-Shami emphasized that the SDF is prepared for any confrontation with Turkish-backed militants and opposes Turkey's attempts to expand its control in Syria. While standing firm militarily, the SDF is open to diplomatic solutions and has expressed willingness to join a restructured Syrian army in a post-Assad era, provided discussions take place. He also clarified that the PKK operates solely in Turkey and that SDF forces remain away from border areas.

The recent escalation follows intensified clashes between US-sponsored Kurdish forces and Turkish-backed militants after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad’s government. Turkish-backed groups, including Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), launched surprise attacks in late November, capturing major cities and Damascus by early December, further complicating the situation in northern Syria.