Syria tribes united against YPG/PKK, support Turkish op

AZAZ, Syria (AA) – The Supreme Assembly for Syrian Tribes and Clans has announced its decision to join forces against the YPG/PKK terrorist group and support an anticipated Turkish military operation in Syria east of the Euphrates River.

At a Friday meeting in the Syrian city of Azaz attended by Arab, Kurdish, Turkmen and Assyrian representatives, assembly members discussed joint efforts against the YPG/PKK; the need for unity and solidarity; and Ankara’s anticipated military operation in northeastern Syria.

Rami Dosh, newly elected assembly chairman, told Anadolu Agency that the assembly would henceforth coordinate its actions more closely with Turkish officials.

Dosh, who is also head of the Al-Aqidat tribe, also voiced his gratitude for Turkey’s support, vowing to further democratize the assembly so as to ensure representation to all its component groups.

At Friday’s meeting, Abdurrahman Mustafa, head of the National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces, said that violations committed by the Syrian regime had forced the region’s tribesmen to unite.

“It is time to join forces,” Mustafa declared. “Tribes must elect their leaders democratically with a view to guaranteeing Syria’s future.”

Since 2016, Turkey has conducted two successful cross-border operations into Syria -- Operations Euphrates Shield and Olive Branch -- with a view to eradicating terrorist groups operating near Turkey’s borders.