A Kurdish military official denied claims of drone acquisitions from Iran, attributing such allegations to Turkish propaganda. He affirmed the autonomy and safety of Kurdish-controlled regions in Syria amid ongoing threats from Turkey, while emphasizing the need for international support to secure a democratic future. The official expressed a desire for collaborative relationships with Israel, portraying the potential for peace and stability in the region.
A Kurdish military official has firmly denied claims that Kurdish forces obtained drones from Iran, characterizing such assertions as Turkish propaganda. The official emphasized that their drone capabilities are basic and developed internally by local fighters. “We did not acquire any drone capabilities from the Iranians,” the official stated, expressing frustration over the false narratives propagated by Turkish media, particularly by Yeni Safak, which seeks to politically undermine Kurdish efforts.
In discussing the situation in Kurdish-administered regions of Syria, the official claimed that these areas remain the safest in the country, with Kurdish forces controlling approximately 30-35% of the territory. This continued self-governance poses a significant challenge to Turkish President Erdogan’s desire to extend his influence, analogous to historical Ottoman territorial claims. Despite attacks from Turkish forces, Kurdish fighters have successfully resisted further incursions east of the Euphrates River.
The Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have publicly rejected the accusations made by Yeni Safak, asserting that their drone technology arises from local experiences, combating the Turkish narrative of their alignment with extremist groups. Citing the Turkish government’s historically oppressive actions toward Kurds, the SDF reiterated that attacks against them are grounded in a desire to delegitimize their cause.
The official articulated a commonality between the Turkish and Iranian regimes in their treatment of the Kurds, stating, “Turkiye is just like Iran. They are both run by extremist religious regimes.” He also raised concerns over the new Syrian administration’s relations with Turkey, fearing further persecution of Kurds who have faced ethnically motivated violence in the region.
When expressing views on the potential for a stable future in Syria, the official conveyed skepticism about the new regime’s ability to ensure safety for minorities and prevent the resurgence of extremist groups like ISIS. He highlighted the chaotic environment as a precursor to instability, emphasizing the need for broad international support to foster a fair and democratic nation for all ethnicities.
On Israeli relations, the official expressed admiration for the Jewish people and their historical presence in the region, recognizing the importance of cooperation against terror. While stating, “It is an honor to appear in your media,” he acknowledged that the current political landscape complicates open alliances. He suggested that Israel’s strengths could significantly contribute to regional stability and peace, advocating for constructive collaboration.
The ongoing hostilities between the Turkish state and the Kurdish minority can be historically traced to deep ethnic tensions. Kurdish groups comprise an estimated 15-20% of the Turkish population and maintain strong connections with Kurdish communities across Syria, Iran, and Iraq, where they possess a degree of autonomy. The Turkish government has frequently accused Kurdish forces of terrorism and encroached upon their territories in northern Syria, leading to persistent conflicts amid a complex geopolitical landscape.
In summary, the statements made by the Kurdish military official underscore a commitment to self-governance and resistance against external attempts to delegitimize their capabilities. The fabrications of the Turkish media are seen as tactical moves to suppress Kurdish autonomy and reinforce public opinion against them. The prospects for Kurdish-Iranian and Kurdish-Israeli relationships remain cautious but hopeful, contingent upon broader regional stability and international support against shared threats like terrorism.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
