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Türkiye warns Israel against exploiting Syria's instability

11:20

By: Dakir Madiha

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Türkiye has issued a stern warning to Israel and other foreign actors, cautioning against exploiting the fragile post-Assad landscape in Syria. Speaking in an interview with broadcaster NTV, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized Türkiye's commitment to preserving Syria’s unity and stability while condemning external interference.

Türkiye's stance on Syria's unity

Fidan highlighted that Türkiye has consistently supported Syria’s territorial integrity, viewing its division as a national security threat. Following the ouster of Bashar Assad last December, Ankara has closely monitored developments in the region, particularly in areas like Suwayda, where unrest has escalated.

The minister accused foreign actors, including Israel, of taking advantage of Syria’s fractured state. “We have no hidden agenda. We want unity and integrity in Syria, not further division,” Fidan stated, adding that Türkiye has conveyed this message to Israel through intelligence channels and diplomatic intermediaries.

Criticism of Israel's role

Fidan singled out Israel for obstructing Syrian state efforts to stabilize the Suwayda region, where clashes between Bedouin and Druze communities have intensified. He warned that, without a central authority, the region risks descending into chaos. “The absence of central powers could lead to mutual massacres,” he said.

He further accused Israel of pursuing policies that weaken Syria, claiming Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government had made its intentions clear. Fidan reiterated that peace and regional cooperation are essential, urging all parties to support Syria’s reconstruction.

Türkiye’s position on armed groups in Syria

Fidan also addressed the presence of armed groups in Syria, particularly the YPG. He called for the group to disarm and reach a voluntary agreement with the Syrian government, asserting that Türkiye cannot tolerate the continued existence of armed factions in the region. “There should be no armed groups other than the state in Syria,” he affirmed.

U.S. involvement and regional diplomacy

The minister acknowledged a shift in U.S. policy toward Syria, praising the efforts of U.S. envoy Tom Barrack. Fidan described Barrack’s approach as impartial and constructive, noting that diplomacy involving Türkiye, Syria, Jordan, and Israel has brought a period of relative calm.

Fidan also confirmed that Türkiye had recently hosted discussions between Ukraine and Russia, laying the groundwork for a potential leaders’ summit. Both sides expressed willingness to negotiate, offering hope for an interim solution to the ongoing conflict.

Developments in defense and visa policies

On defense procurement, Fidan revealed that discussions on acquiring Eurofighter jets had gained momentum, crediting President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s direct involvement. He emphasized the complexity of such decisions, describing them as systemic changes rather than mere purchases.

In a separate development, the European Union has eased Schengen visa procedures for Turkish citizens. The new guidelines allow for longer-term, multiple-entry visas for Turks with a history of compliant travel. Fidan welcomed the decision, calling it a positive step in Türkiye’s relationship with the EU.

Regional tensions and hope for diplomacy

Addressing the ongoing Gaza conflict, Fidan denounced Israel’s military operations, accusing it of pursuing policies aimed at making Gaza uninhabitable. He also raised concerns about Israel’s efforts to relocate Palestinians, alleging that Israeli intelligence officials are pressuring other countries to accept refugees.

On the possibility of an Iran-Israel war, Fidan expressed cautious optimism, stating that war is avoidable if nuclear negotiations succeed. “I believe Iran will not attack unless provoked,” he said, underscoring the importance of diplomacy in defusing tensions.