Syrian Democratic Forces Claim Downing Turkish Bayraktar TB2 Drone

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) have reported shooting down a Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drone following three airstrikes near the Qarqozak Bridge, close to Kobani in northern Syria.

The incident defied a ceasefire, highlighting tensions fueled by Assad’s regime collapse, which reignited clashes between Syrian Kurds and Turkish-backed rebels. Turkey views the SDF as linked to the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), designated a terrorist group by Ankara.

The SDF released footage showing the drone's downing but did not disclose the method used, though advanced missile technology is suspected. This development has heightened concerns about Turkey's increasing military activities near the Syrian border.

According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, U.S. officials have expressed growing concern over Turkey's possible plans for a large-scale incursion into Kurdish-held territories. The buildup reportedly includes Turkish commandos, artillery units, and allied militias stationed at strategic positions. These movements are reminiscent of Turkey's 2019 operation into northern Syria, with one U.S. official warning that "a cross-border operation could be imminent."

Ilham Ahmed, a senior official in the Kurdish-led administration, has warned that Turkey might aim to capture Syrian Kurdish territory before the U.S. presidential transition in January. Ahmed cautioned that such an operation could have catastrophic consequences, including large-scale civilian displacement.

In response, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reiterated his commitment to eliminating what he described as terrorist organizations in Syria, including the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK). During a call with Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer, Erdogan emphasized the need for international support to rebuild Syria's infrastructure and facilitate refugee returns.