The Turkish-backed Syrian National Army (SNA) has officially ended a U.S.-mediated ceasefire with the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in northern Syria.
Brokered last week after rebel groups overthrew Bashar al-Assad’s regime, the ceasefire led to the withdrawal of SDF forces from Manbij. However, sources told Al-Monitor that negotiations have failed, and the SNA declared it would resume its operations against the SDF.
According to Al Monitor’s report, there has been a significant military buildup near Kobani on the Turkish border, both east and west of the town. Kobani holds major symbolic and strategic significance for the Kurds, as it was a critical site of resistance against ISIS in 2014.
Turkish officials denied the claims made by the U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller that it agreed to a ceasefire with Kurdish fighters in northern Syria.
“As Turkey, it is out of the question for us to have talks with any terrorist organisation. The (U.S.) statement must be a slip of the tongue,” a Turkish official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated Ankara’s stance, stating that Turkey’s “strategic goal” is to eliminate the YPG, the main component of the SDF.
Turkey claims the YPG as the Syrian arm of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), which has been designated a terrorist organization by Turkey.
The collapse of the ceasefire comes amid increased military action across northern Syria. Tensions remain high following Turkish air and drone strikes targeting SDF positions in recent weeks.
