Turkey's 'Terrorist' Label for US-Backed Kurds: A Convenient Retcon
📰 THE STORY: Daily Sabah, a Turkish government-aligned outlet, reports that 'Syria's strategic moves' and a 'change of US policy' defeated the 'U.S.-backed terrorist group YPG' in northern Syria, allowing the Syrian army to quickly seize YPG-held areas. 🔍 WHAT THEY'RE NOT TELLING YOU: Historical Context: The YPG (People's Protection Units) were the primary ground force of the Syrian Democratic
Forces (SDF), a crucial US ally in the fight against ISIS, receiving significant military aid and training from the US, particularly between 2014 and 2019. This 'terrorist group' narrative is primarily from Turkey, which views the YPG as an extension of the PKK, a designated terror group by Turkey and the US. The article conveniently omits the years of explicit US backing that built up the YPG's
strength. Double Standard: Western media and governments lauded the YPG as brave freedom fighters against ISIS when it suited their geopolitical aims. Now, as US policy pivots (or is perceived to pivot), the same group is retroactively labeled 'terrorist' by outlets aligned with regional powers like Turkey. Contrast this with the selective labeling of 'freedom fighters' in Ukraine receiving
billions in arms vs. 'terrorists' in Gaza struggling for basic survival. Follow the Money: The US spent billions supporting various factions in Syria, including the YPG, with arms, training, and logistical support. The 'change in US policy' often reflects shifting alliances and the influence of regional actors like Turkey, a NATO member. Ankara's consistent lobbying and military pressure against