MSB Issues Firm Warning on Syrian Unitary State and SDF Integration
Turkey's Ministry of National Defense emphasizes a "one state, one army" principle for Syria while reporting major counter-terrorism gains and NATO success.
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By Ahmet Taş | Wise News Press
ANKARA, TURKEY — The Turkish Ministry of National Defense (MSB) has issued a definitive statement regarding the ongoing geopolitical shifts in northern Syria, asserting that any integration process between the Syrian government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) must strictly adhere to the principle of a unitary state. During a weekly press briefing held at the Communications, Electronics, and Information Systems (MEBS) School and Training Center Command, Rear Admiral Zeki Aktürk emphasized that Turkey expects this process to be completed rapidly under the framework of "one state, one army," noting that no other alternative is considered acceptable by Ankara.
As the regional dynamics evolve, the Ministry confirmed it is closely monitoring field developments to take all necessary precautions in line with Turkey's national interests. This strategic stance coincides with a period of intensified counter-terrorism operations and significant milestones in Turkey’s defense technology and international military cooperation.
Major Counter-Terrorism Gains and Tunnel Destruction
The Ministry provided an extensive update on the Turkish Armed Forces' (TSK) ongoing efforts to neutralize threats beyond the nation's borders. Rear Admiral Aktürk reported that the pressure on the PKK has resulted in the surrender of 10 more terrorists this week alone, bringing the total number of surrendered militants since January 1 to 35. These surrenders are viewed as a direct consequence of continuous search-and-destroy operations targeting the group's logistics and infrastructure.
A particularly significant tactical achievement was reported in the Manbij and Tel Rifaat regions. The Ministry announced the following data regarding underground infrastructure:
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Approximately 2 kilometers of tunnels were destroyed in the last seven days.
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In Manbij, 94% of identified tunnel lines have now been successfully neutralized.
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The total length of tunnels destroyed across Syrian operation areas has reached a staggering 759 kilometers, consisting of 302 kilometers in Tel Rifaat and 457 kilometers in Manbij.
In addition to tunnel demolition, the TSK is actively engaged in identifying and destroying caves, shelters, mines, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to prevent the reorganization of terrorist elements in these zones.
Border Security and Humanitarian Support
Turkey’s border security remains a top priority, with Aktürk detailing the arrest of 176 individuals attempting illegal crossings over the past week, 12 of whom were identified as members of terrorist organizations. This brings the total number of captures for the year to 966, while the military has successfully prevented 9,714 individuals from crossing illegally since the start of 2026.
Beyond security, the Ministry highlighted its role in regional humanitarian and anti-smuggling efforts:
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Turkish border units seized 21 kilograms of narcotics during a sweep along the Hakkari border line this week.
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The Air Force provided critical helicopter support to rescue irregular migrants after a boat sank between Foça and Karaburun on February 12.
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Ankara also extended its search-and-rescue expertise to Senegal, deploying a maritime patrol aircraft to assist after a naval boat sank in the Senegal River; the aircraft has conducted 41 flights to date for this mission.
NATO’s 74th Anniversary and "Steadfast Dart 2026"
The briefing marked the 74th anniversary of Turkey’s accession to NATO, with the Ministry reaffirming its commitment to being a "strong, reliable, and effective" member of the alliance. Ankara currently maintains a massive presence in the "Steadfast Dart 2026" exercise, NATO’s most comprehensive and high-participation field drill of the year, taking place in Germany from February 8 to 25.
Approximately 2,000 Turkish personnel are participating, demonstrating Turkey’s capacity for strategic deployment, rapid force transfer, and sustainable logistical maintenance. This exercise serves as a critical platform to test NATO’s joint operational capabilities across Europe, reflecting the TSK's high state of readiness.
A Historic Milestone: Bayraktar TB-3 and TCG Anadolu
A landmark event occurred during the maritime phase of the NATO exercises. On February 14, the Bayraktar TB-3 Armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) performed its first-ever ship-borne takeoff during a NATO drill. Operating from the TCG Anadolu, the TB-3 successfully neutralized a maritime target using two MAM-L Mini Intelligent Munitions.
The Minister of National Defense, Yaşar Güler, and senior military commanders are scheduled to observe the "Distinguished Observer Day" of the exercise tomorrow. This milestone underscores Turkey’s leadership in integrating unmanned systems into naval warfare, a feat closely watched by allied maritime forces.
Geopolitical Stances on Israel, Greece, and Libya
Rear Admiral Aktürk addressed several regional legal disputes, beginning with a strong condemnation of Israel’s recent decisions to expand settlement activities in the occupied West Bank. The Ministry declared these moves "null and void" and a "clear violation of international law," urging the international community to take a decisive stand against the creation of de facto situations on Palestinian lands.
In the Mediterranean, the MSB criticized the agreement between Greece and the US-based Chevron regarding hydrocarbon fields south of Crete. While stating the activities do not directly affect Turkey’s maritime jurisdiction, the Ministry argued they violate international law and the 2019 Turkey-Libya MoU. Aktürk affirmed that Turkey continues to support Libyan authorities in taking legal initiatives against these "unilateral and unlawful" activities.
Future Defense Engagements: UK and Somalia
Looking ahead, the Ministry announced a working visit to the United Kingdom’s Coningsby Air Base from February 24 to 27. This visit is part of the Eurofighter Typhoon procurement project and focuses on the initial training for flight and ground personnel.
The Ministry also emphasized its growing partnership with Somalia. A Turkish delegation recently visited the country to inspect the activities of the Somali Turkish Task Force Command and the upcoming missions of the Amphibious Marine Infantry Company. Turkey remains committed to ensuring the security of the "Space Port and Test Fire Range" built in Somalia, while providing maximum support for the Somali National Army's counter-terrorism operations.
Finally, diplomatic efforts continue with Greece through the Confidence Building Measures framework, with a Turkish naval delegation visiting Athens between February 17 and 19. A similar naval cooperation meeting with Bulgaria is planned for late February in Turkey.
