The United States has reaffirmed its stance on the withdrawal of foreign fighters from Syria, emphasizing the importance of their departure to ensure regional stability and address Turkey’s national security concerns.

Speaking during a virtual press briefing in Ankara, Under Secretary of State John Bass highlighted the U.S. position following high-level discussions with Turkish officials.

“We believe that any foreign terrorist present inside Syria should leave the country,” Bass stated, echoing Turkey’s demand that Syria must not serve as a safe haven for foreign terrorist organizations or fighters. He also stressed the importance of a structured process for the repatriation of these individuals to their home countries, where they could face justice for their actions.

Addressing Turkey’s Concerns

Bass acknowledged Turkey’s security concerns, emphasizing the need for U.S.-Turkey collaboration to ensure a smooth transition in Syria. “We think it’s quite important that we work together on this transition in ways that don’t contribute to instability or create opportunities for Daesh to carry out terrorist activities,” he said.

His comments come amid escalating tensions between Turkey and the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which Ankara accuses of being dominated by the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a group Turkey designates as a terrorist organization. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently issued a warning to the People’s Defense Units (YPG), a key component of the SDF, demanding their immediate withdrawal from Syria or facing potential military action.

U.S. Military Presence in Syria

Bass, a former U.S. ambassador to Turkey, reiterated the United States’ commitment to maintaining its military presence in Syria. The U.S. mission remains focused on preventing the resurgence of ISIS as a regional threat.

He underscored the need for continued cooperation with Turkey to ensure a stable transition in the region, addressing security risks while maintaining a long-term strategy to prevent instability.

Broader Implications

The U.S. position reflects its ongoing commitment to managing the intricate dynamics of post-Assad Syria and addressing the challenges posed by foreign fighters. The discussions underline the necessity of multinational efforts to prevent Syria from becoming a hub for terrorist organizations while balancing the diverse interests of regional stakeholders.