Following accusations last week by Turkish Defense Ministry spokesperson Zeki Akturk that the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) failed to honor agreements with Damascus, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan commented on the potential consequences if diplomatic efforts to implement the integration deal fall through.

Erdogan emphasized on Thursday that Turkey will not allow Syria to be fragmented or its territorial integrity to be compromised.

Speaking at an event marking the reopening of parliament, Erdogan stated, “We have used all diplomatic channels to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity and prevent the formation of a terrorist entity along our borders. We continue to use these channels with patience, sincerity, and wisdom.”

He added, “If diplomatic initiatives are left unanswered, Turkey’s policy and stance are clear. Turkey will not allow a repeat of the experience in Syria.”

This statement followed accusations by Zeki Akturk that the SDF had not adhered to the understandings reached with Damascus.

In contrast, a senior Kurdish official asserted that the SDF poses no threat to Turkey.

Badran Jia Kurd, Deputy Co-Chair of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria for Political Affairs, criticized Turkey’s role in the Syrian crisis, claiming that “Ankara is attempting to export its internal conflicts and disputes over peace and domestic dialogue into Syria.”