ALEPPO, Syria — Hours after Turkish Foreign Ministry Undersecretary Feridun Sinirlioglu announced Aug. 12 that Turkey and the United States had agreed on the terms to establish a “safe zone” in northern Syria, Washington swiftly denied it. According to Sinirlioglu, the safe zone would stretch over 98 kilometers (61 miles) in length and 45 kilometers (28 miles) in width in the north of Syria. However, despite these contradicting statements, there are several indications on the ground confirming that the establishment of such a zone is in the offing.
The establishment of a safe zone has become an urgent need for Turkey now more than ever, especially following the takeover of Tell Abyad by the People’s Protection Units (YPG) June 16 with the support of the international coalition. The YPG has emerged as a force to be reckoned with along the southern Turkish border. A safe zone would limit the influx of Syrian refugees into Turkey. What is more, this safe zone would act as a safe haven for millions of Syrians fleeing blazing battles in their country.