What led to Erdogan cutting water supply to millions of Kurds

Introduction

The cutting off of water supplies to millions of Kurds by Turkey, particularly in northeastern Syria, is a complex issue rooted in the ongoing conflict between Turkey and Kurdish forces.

Here are the main factors that have led to this situation:

Military Operations and Control

Turkish Military Offensive:

The Turkish government, under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, launched military operations in northeastern Syria beginning in October 2019, aimed at establishing a buffer zone along its southern border. This operation targeted Kurdish forces, particularly the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the People’s Protection Units (YPG), which Turkey considers extensions of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), classified as a terrorist organization by Turkey and its allies.

Control of Infrastructure:

Following these military incursions, Turkey gained control over key infrastructure, including the Allouk water pumping station near Ras Al-Ain. Since then, Turkey has been accused of using water supply cuts as a tactical weapon against Kurdish populations. Reports indicate that Turkey has cut off water supplies multiple times, with significant disruptions occurring during military operations.

Humanitarian Impact

Water as a Weapon:

The Turkish government has been accused of deliberately cutting off water supplies to exert pressure on Kurdish communities. This tactic has resulted in severe humanitarian consequences, affecting over a million people who rely on the Allouk station for their drinking water. Humanitarian organizations have warned that these actions exacerbate an already dire situation, especially during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Infrastructure Damage:

Turkish airstrikes have targeted essential infrastructure, including power plants and water facilities. For instance, airstrikes in October 2023 damaged power infrastructure critical for operating the Allouk station, leading to complete water supply disruptions in the region. Local authorities and NGOs have reported that such military actions not only violate international law but also contribute to a worsening humanitarian crisis.

Political Motivations

Strategic Objectives:

Erdoğan’s government justifies these military actions as necessary for national security and combating terrorism. However, critics argue that these tactics aim to undermine Kurdish autonomy and demographic stability in the region. By controlling water resources and infrastructure, Turkey seeks to weaken Kurdish political structures and influence.

Blame on Kurdish Authorities:

The Turkish government has attempted to deflect responsibility for water shortages by blaming Kurdish authorities for mismanagement and power cuts. This narrative serves to justify military actions while obscuring Turkey’s role in exacerbating the humanitarian crisis through direct attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Conclusion

Erdoğan’s decision to cut off water supplies to millions of Kurds is deeply intertwined with Turkey’s military strategy against Kurdish forces in Syria. The use of water supply disruptions as a weapon highlights the humanitarian implications of ongoing conflicts and raises serious concerns about violations of international law. The situation remains critical for the affected populations who face severe shortages of essential resources.