Extracts: Erdogan seeks to reset Turkey's strained ties with the United States by inviting President-elect Donald Trump to Turkey Erdogan does a simultaneous display of chess.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is making no effort to disguise his ambitions
In a bold declaration following the first meeting of Turkey’s cabinet, Erdogan made it clear that he intends to target the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF)
Erdogan's message to Washington was unequivocal:
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“A new era has begun in Syria… Turkey has shown what kind of will it has to protect its survival and security
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If it comes to that again ‘we may come suddenly one night’
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The circle is narrowing for the separatist organization and its extensions in Syria
As the government and the alliance, we will achieve our goal of a terror-free Turkey, one way or another
Of course, we hope this will happen safely. If this road is blocked and dynamited, then we will not hesitate to strike with the iron fist of the state wrapped in velvet gloves”
While the Biden administration nears the end of its term, Erdogan is laying the groundwork for a military assault to neutralize the SDF
Recent clashes between the SDF and Turkish-backed militias operating under the “Syrian National Army” banner underscore Erdogan’s determination
The SDF recognized globally for its pivotal role in combating the Islamic State (ISIS) now faces an existential threat as it fights to defend its autonomous zone in northern Syria
For Syrian Kurds and other communities opposed to jihadist governance, Erdogan’s ambitions signal a grim future
The interim government in Syria, dominated by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) raises additional concerns Despite presenting a rebranded image HTS has historical connections to extremist groups like ISIS and Al Qaeda
Its leaders, now donning suits and offering platitudes of moderation, cannot hide their true intentions
