PRESS RELEASE | Aug. 28, 2019
U.S. and partner forces implement security mechanism in northeast Syria
U.S. Central Command

August 27, 2019

Release Number 20190827-01

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TAMPA, Fla. – The Syrian Democratic Forces, a Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve partner force in the fight against Daesh, completed the destruction of People’s Protection Unit, also known as YPG, fighting positions in northeast Syria using bulldozers and backhoes, Aug. 24. Following the demolition, People’s Protection Unit soldiers manning the positions left the zone designated by the security mechanism, a significant step in the agreement.

The security mechanism is part of a framework between the U.S. and Turkey designed to address Turkish security concerns. The nations reached an initial understanding following military-to-military talks in Ankara, Turkey, earlier this month.

According to an official U.S. Department of Defense release, the plan prevents Daesh from reemerging in the area, and allows the Coalition and its partner force to remain focused on the enduring defeat of Daesh.

The U.S. is helping to organize security mechanism efforts on both sides of the border. In Turkey, the U.S. and Turkey have established a Combined Joint Operations Center to oversee operations. In the border towns of northeast Syria, U.S. commanders spent the week meeting with local military councils, civil councils, and internal security forces.

“Our first priority is to defeat Daesh,” said Air Force Maj. Gen. Eric T. Hill, commanding general of Special Operations Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve. “Implementing the security mechanism allows our regional partners to remain and thrive.”

The security mechanism will be implemented in stages as continued negotiations occur with key stakeholders.