SDF Downs Turkish Bayraktar Drone Amid Tensions in Northern Syria

he Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) successfully shot down a Turkish Bayraktar TB2 combat drone near the Qaraqozak Bridge in northern Raqqa on Wednesday. The incident occurred at 1:00 p.m. local time, according to a statement from the SDF Media Center.

The downing of the drone highlights ongoing tensions between the SDF and Turkey, particularly after repeated violations of a ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States. The ceasefire, which was meant to stabilize northern Syria, has faced challenges, with both Turkey and the SDF accusing each other of undermining the fragile truce. The SDF specifically accuses Turkey and its allied opposition factions of aggression, particularly targeting strategic locations such as Kobani, Tishreen Dam, and Ain Issa.

Turkey's involvement in Syria reflects its broader strategy to assert influence in the region, especially following the recent ousting of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Ankara's military operations often target the SDF, which is a key U.S. ally in the fight against the Islamic State (IS). However, tensions have been high, as Turkey views the Kurdish People’s Defense Units (YPG)—the core of the SDF—as an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a group designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey and its allies.