Turkey Calls for Peaceful Talks with Syria’s SDF but Warns Time Is Running Out

Post by : Saif Nasser

Turkey has called on Syria’s Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to resolve their differences through dialogue and negotiation, while warning that patience among regional players is wearing thin. The message came from Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, who stressed that Ankara prefers peace but will not wait forever.

Speaking in an interview, Fidan said Turkey does not want to return to military action against the SDF. Instead, he said all sides should focus on talks and peaceful solutions. However, he warned that continued delays in carrying out a key agreement could push the situation in a dangerous direction.

At the heart of the issue is an integration deal signed on March 10. According to Turkey, this agreement was meant to outline how the SDF would integrate into a broader political and security framework in Syria. Fidan said Turkey and other involved parties expect the SDF to fully respect and implement this deal without delay or changes.

“Everyone is waiting for the agreement to be honored as it was signed,” Fidan said. He added that altering or delaying the deal could lead to serious consequences, something Turkey wants to avoid.

Turkey has long viewed the SDF with suspicion, arguing that the group has close ties to Kurdish militants that Ankara considers a security threat. In the past, Turkey has carried out military operations in northern Syria aimed at pushing back Kurdish-led forces near its border.

Fidan’s comments suggest that while Turkey is trying to avoid another conflict, it is also sending a clear warning. He said the patience of all parties involved is “running out,” signaling that diplomatic efforts cannot continue indefinitely without results.

The foreign minister repeated that Turkey’s priority is stability in the region. He said dialogue and negotiation are the best ways to reach lasting peace, not weapons or force. Still, he made it clear that the responsibility now lies with the SDF to act on its promises.

As tensions remain high in northern Syria, Turkey’s statement highlights the fragile balance between diplomacy and conflict. Whether talks move forward peacefully may depend on how quickly and seriously the SDF responds to these calls.