Syria’s new leader says no tolerance for terror groups threatening Türkiye

Syria will not permit any terrorist organization within its borders to jeopardize Türkiye's security, new Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa has stated.

"We have no tolerance for foreign armed groups, particularly those posing a threat to Türkiye," al-Sharaa declared during an interview with Turkish broadcaster A Haber released late on Jan. 23.

Referring to the PKK/YPG terrorist organization, he added that "Syria cannot allow armed factions to menace a nation like Türkiye, which has extended a welcoming hand to Syrians and provided them with vital assistance."

"Syria unequivocally declares that it will take all necessary measures to safeguard Türkiye's borders."

PKK is designated as a terrorist organization by Türkiye, the United States and the European Union, with Ankara categorizing YPG in the same vein. However, Washington continues to collaborate with YPG-affiliated forces in northern Syria under the pretext of combating the ISIL terrorist group — an issue that remains one of the central points of contention between Ankara and Washington.

Al-Sharaa further underscored the discontent among Kurdish and Arab tribes in the region over YPG's presence.

Following the overthrow of the Bashar al-Assad regime last month, Syria's administration called for the disarmament of all armed factions and their integration under the Defense Ministry. Nonetheless, YPG rebuffed this proposal, seeking to maintain a separate bloc and autonomous force under the ministry's umbrella.

Al-Sharaa similarly warned of the persistent risk of Syria's fragmentation if YPG/PKK fails to lay down its arms.

"We are committed to exploring all diplomatic channels and granting time for a peaceful resolution. Syria's territorial integrity remains an...