U.S. Ambassador and Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack held talks with Turkish Defense Minister Yasar Guler in Ankara, focusing on the disarmament of the U.S.-backed SDF terrorist organization and their integration into the Syrian regime’s military structure, according to Turkish columnist Abdulkadir Selvi.
Selvi reported that the U.S. envoy expressed alignment with Türkiye’s stance on preserving Syria’s territorial integrity and transitioning the terrorist organization YPG/PKK-affiliated SDF into the ranks of the Syrian army.
Türkiye insists that the SDF complete the integration process outlined in their March 10 agreement with the Syrian government. There is reportedly consensus on the issue between Türkiye, the U.S. and Damascus.
While speculation has circulated about possible military operations, the discussions were officially described as a courtesy visit by Barrack, with military intervention reportedly not on the agenda.
However, sources cited by Selvi suggest that military options remain on the table if the integration process fails.
"Türkiye is striving to complete the transition without military action, but if (terrorist ringleader) Mazlum Abdi resists, he risks losing U.S. backing," Selvi wrote.
"In that case, the only remaining option will be a comprehensive military operation. We’ll then see whether Israel can save him."