SDG Leader Abdi: We Need Direct Talks with Imrali

WISE NEWS PRESS / LONDON, UK — DEC. 13, 2025

Mazlum Abdi, Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), stated that they need to hold "direct talks at Imrali" with PKK leader Abdullah Öcalan to resolve certain issues within the scope of the new process being conducted in Turkey.

Speaking to the Mesopotamia Agency, Abdi expressed their desire to contribute positively to the discussions in Turkey, asking, "If this situation will contribute positively to the solution, why shouldn't we go?" Addressing criticisms regarding the presence of PKK members in Syria, Abdi argued that this issue could only be resolved through a process involving Öcalan.

Imrali and the "Northern Fighters" Issue

Abdi drew attention to the PKK presence in Syria, which is at the center of Ankara's security concerns. Referring to the issue of "northern fighters" (PKK members of Turkish origin) in Northern Syria, Abdi said, "Only Imrali can solve this."

Confirming that they have been exchanging views with Öcalan indirectly through letters, the SDF leader emphasized that direct contact is essential for the progress of the process and the establishment of a permanent ceasefire.

The March 10 Agreement and Integration with Damascus

The "integration agreement" signed on March 10 between the SDF and the new government formed after the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024 is also a key agenda item.

Abdi stated that a preliminary understanding had been reached with the Damascus administration on military matters and the SDF's integration into the Syrian army, but obstacles remain regarding constitutional rights. "It is not yet clear how the rights of the Kurds and other components will be included in the constitution. Without these, a general agreement is not possible," Abdi assessed.

Sharp Response from Ankara: "Actions, Not Words"

Ankara was quick to react to the SDF's statements. In a statement on December 12, the Turkish Ministry of National Defense (MSB) noted that despite the March 10 Agreement, the SDF was trying to buy time instead of integrating into the Syrian army.

AKP Spokesperson Ömer Çelik emphasized that the People's Alliance's stance is clear: "If someone says, 'I do not pose a threat to the Republic of Turkey,' we need to see this in practice. We demand that the SDF lay down its arms and comply with the agreement. We will be monitoring this in the coming period."

US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack also announced last month during talks at the White House that plans are in place to integrate the SDF into Syria's new economic and defense structures.

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