Turkish attacks aimed to support ISIS, hit stability – AANES official

In an exclusive statement to North Press, Badran Chiya Kurd, co-chair of the Foreign Relations Department of the AANES, said, “In practice, the risks and threats of ISIS persist, and the Turkish attacks serve as a clear support for ISIS against our regions. The world is aware of this fact, as is the US-led Coalition. The threats posed by ISIS are not limited to our regions alone.”

Regarding the US’ extension of the national emergency with respect to the situation in Syria, the official said that it came within the framework of the Coalition’s efforts to defeat ISIS, “especially since Turkey’s attacks created a fertile ground for extremist organizations to revive.”

From Oct. 5 to Oct. 9, Turkey attacked 104 sites in northern and northeastern Syria, including vital infrastructure such as power, gas, and water stations and educational facilities, with more than 580 air and ground strikes, according to a statement by the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).

He said they succeeded in conveying the full picture on the ground to many international bodies regarding the Turkish attacks and in countering misleading information. Turkey’s claims of attacking terrorists “are merely a cover-up to justify its aims of destroying the AANES-held areas and impeding their progress.”

Asked about the AANES relations with the West, the official noted that there is “a general consensus on the importance and role of the AANES project in the Syrian political solution… We strive to develop our diplomatic work based on our project, which represents a cornerstone for a democratic solution in Syria.”

There has also been direct and collaborative work with the West in the field of counterterrorism and supporting stability, Chiya Kurd said, adding that “the AANES has taken important steps in engaging with official, civil, and international entities to address common issues.”