"The Syrian Democratic Forces have temporarily suspended offensive actions against ISIS in response to cross border attacks by Turkey against SDF positions in Northern Syria. We anticipate this will be a temporary suspension," Urban said.
The official called for the de-escalation of the situation and emphasized that "unity of focus on the defeat of ISIS is imperative."
READ MORE: Daesh Surprise Attack Ousts US-Backed SDF Forces From Eastern Syria — Reports
On Wednesday, Omer Celik, the press secretary of the Turkish ruling Justice and Development Party, stated that the activities in the Syrian territories located to the east of the Euphrates River and controlled by the SDF had nothing to do with the fight against Daesh.
The SDF has long been the point of disagreements between Turkey and the United States, the two NATO allies. Ankara has condemned Washington for sending arms and providing other support to the group while Washington has been calling on Ankara for restraint in its conflict with the Kurds.
*Daesh, also known as IS/ISIS/ISIL/Islamic State, is a terrorist organization, banned in Russia and many other countries.
