Joint U.S.–Syrian Democratic Forces military exercises as Turkish President Erdogan returns from Iran trip talking of invasion of North and East Syria

NORTH AND EAST SYRIA — The General Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) of North and East Syria Mazloum Abdi received commander of U.S. Central Command Lieutenant-General Michael Kurilla and his  delegation on Thursday. 

The pair discussed the security concerns posed by the continuous Turkish threats to the region and their impact on efforts to combat terrorism, 

Kurilla stated that the U.S. military and government institutions oppose any possible Turkish attack on North and East Syria, according to the SDF website.

The two commanders touched on military operations and cooperation in fighting the Islamic State (ISIS), increasing efforts to combat terrorism, and supporting the stability of the region.

Earlier in the week, U.S. forces and the SDF carried out military exercises with live ammunition at the military base in the countryside of Shaddadi, south of Hasakah.

A U.S. convoy that comprised 50 trucks carrying logistical materials, armored vehicles, and tanks arrived at the base in preparation for the exercises.

Gunfire and explosions were heard in the vicinity of the base during the exercises, according to residents of Shaddadi.

The exercises come as the U.S. attempts to assure its SDF allies over the increasing tension with Turkey who is threatening to once again invade the region.

Erdogan warned once more that Ankara would start a fresh military campaign in northern Syria following his meeting in Tehran with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.