Germany has issued a strong warning to Turkey regarding the potential consequences of targeting Kurdish forces in Syria amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized that such actions could destabilize the region and empower extremist groups, particularly the so-called Islamic State (IS).
Speaking on Germany’s Deutschlandfunk public radio on Monday, Baerbock said, “This must not happen. It would help no one if the Islamic State terrorists were the ones to benefit from a conflict with the Kurds. This would pose a security threat to Syria, Turkey, and Europe.”
Baerbock praised the critical role Kurdish forces have played in combating IS and called on Turkey to uphold its responsibility to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity.
Baerbock’s comments come in response to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent declaration of intent to target “terrorist” groups threatening Syria, specifically IS and Kurdish fighters.
Tensions Over Kurdish Forces
Turkey has conducted multiple military operations in northern Syria against the Kurdish YPG militia, which Ankara considers an extension of the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).
The PKK is designated a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, with Turkey attributing over 40,000 deaths to PKK-related violence.
Erdogan’s recent statements have sparked fears of a renewed offensive near the northern Syrian border town of Kobane. Kurdish forces, who were instrumental in defeating IS, warn that such an escalation could undo years of efforts to stabilize the region.
Analysts warn that any Turkish offensive against Kurdish forces could have far-reaching security implications.
Germany’s Baerbock reiterated that destabilization in Syria risks empowering IS and creating a spillover effect that could threaten neighboring countries and Europe.
Shongjog 