Syrian armed opposition backs Turkey’s Olive Branch

By Adham Kako

ANKARA

Syria’s armed opposition said Monday that it is supporting Turkey’s Operation Olive Branch by joining the Free Syrian Army -- an opposition group backed by Turkey -- in ongoing ground operations.

In a written statement, the opposition, which took part in last year’s Astana, Kazakhstan talks on Syria, said they will support the operation, which aims to rid northwest Syria of PYD/YPG terrorists.

“We will join the ground fight,” the statement said.

The main goal of the Turkish operation is to rescue Syrians from PYD/PKK terrorist oppression and ensure that hundreds of thousands of Syrians displaced by the PYD/PKK can return to their homes safely, the statement said.

Afrin has been a major hideout for the PYD/PKK since July 2012 when the Assad regime in Syria left the city to the terror group without putting up a fight.

The opposition also calls on Syrians to stand against PYD/PKK terrorists, stressing that the terrorist group does not represent Kurds.

In the statement, the group also conveyed its appreciation for the stream of aid from Turkey and its recognition of Syria’s territorial integrity.

The operation, launched on Saturday, is being carried out under the framework of Turkey’s rights based on international law, UN Security Council resolutions, its self-defense rights under the UN charter, and respect for Syria's territorial integrity, according to the Turkish military.