Part 5/9:
Meanwhile, Turkey has begun a limited air campaign targeting Kurdish forces in Northern Syria, killing 22 members of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and wounding dozens more. Turkey’s primary concern remains preventing Kurdish groups like the PKK from establishing an independent state along its border, which it views as a threat to regional stability. Despite being an ally of the US and NATO, Turkey maintains a contentious stance towards Kurdish autonomy, often conducting unilateral military operations. The Pentagon has expressed concern about coordination with Turkey, stressing the importance of preventing escalation and protecting US personnel in the region.