In a written statement, Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) General Command said that the Turkish state has been attempting to occupy Syria for many years, and described the ‘Euphrates Shield’ operation as the latest such attempt. SDF General Command said “With these attacks, they occupy Syrian land and position their forces in North Aleppo under the disguise of ‘fight against terrorism.’ However, the goal of these attacks has been the occupation of the areas liberated by Manbij Military Council fighters.

The Turkish army carried out attacks against Manbij Military Council forces and occupied some of the villages that had been liberated by these forces. The attacks against Manbij Military Council forces show that Turkey wants to occupy Manbij.

On November 20, we had announced that we withdrew to the east of the Euphrates after completing our mission of supporting Manbij Military Council.

If the attacks on the region continue, we will fulfill our duty of supporting Manbij Military Council forces. We are ready to support Manbij Military Council and respond if the occupation attacks continue.

We call upon the international coalition led by the US to fulfill their duty of defending Manbij Military Council forces and the people of Manbij.”