In a strategic shift, Turkey plans to join forces with Syria, Iraq, and Jordan to combat the remnants of the Islamic State (IS) in Syria. This move signifies a new chapter in regional cooperation despite existing political tensions.
Turkey has announced a collaborative effort with neighboring countries Syria, Iraq, and Jordan to address the lingering threat of the Islamic State group. The Turkish Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, revealed this plan during a press conference, highlighting the challenges posed by IS prisoners currently under the guard of the YPG, a Kurdish group in Syria. Turkey’s government has long opposed the YPG, viewing it as an offshoot of the PKK, a group considered a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union.
The United States’ ongoing alliance with Kurdish-led forces in Syria, including the YPG, has been a point of contention for Turkey. Ankara argues that its cooperation with Iraq, Syria, and Jordan in the fight against IS might help steer U.S. policies away from relying on Kurdish forces. The YPG has been instrumental in the U.S.-led efforts against IS, yet Turkey’s focus remains on reducing YPG’s influence and addressing security concerns related to PKK affiliations.
Foreign Minister Fidan emphasized that initial discussions among the four nations have already taken place. He insisted that Turkey, along with its neighboring countries, possesses the capability to manage the threat from IS independently. Moreover, the new Syrian administration has signaled its willingness to assume responsibility for IS detainees.
Amidst this regional development, Turkey maintains significant military activities against Kurdish forces. Turkish-backed fighters have launched operations to capture strategic locations in northern Syria previously held by Kurdish forces. Concurrently, Turkish military operations continue against PKK/YPG combatants in northern Iraq and Syria. The Turkish Defense Ministry recently reported eliminating 23 Kurdish fighters, underscoring Turkey’s commitment to its military objectives.
The political dynamics between Ankara and Washington are also crucial. Turkey hopes that the U.S. will reconsider its support for the Kurdish fighters, which could lead to changes in America’s military presence in Syria. Past remarks by U.S. leaders about withdrawing troops from Syria have fueled speculation about future U.S. strategy.
The collaboration among Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Jordan to combat IS comes amid a broader geopolitical context. It reflects a pragmatic approach to regional security challenges while navigating longstanding alliances and enmities.
Turkey’s proposed alliance with Syria, Iraq, and Jordan marks a significant geopolitical shift. By prioritizing cooperation over continued tension, these nations seek to stabilize the region by addressing persistent threats like the Islamic State. Through regional collaboration, Turkey and its neighbors aim to create a unified front against common security challenges.
