Turkey Expresses Concern Over Israel’s Military Actions in Syria

Turkey is alarmed by Israel’s assaults on Syria, viewing them as provocations. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticized Israel’s perception of Arab nations as threats. He also addressed concerns related to the PKK/YPG terrorist group and suggested Turkey’s readiness to manage security in northeastern Syria, while emphasizing the importance of a cohesive European security framework amid uncertain U.S. commitments.

Turkey, represented by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, has expressed deep concerns regarding Israel’s military actions in southern Syria. In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Fidan categorized these ongoing attacks and troop movements as provocations and warned that Israel perceives Arab and Muslim nations as threats, which he deemed extremely perilous.

Fidan’s remarks highlight the growing anxieties of Turkey, which is a vocal critic of Israel’s actions towards Palestinians. Israel’s aggressive stance has intensified as it exploits Syria’s unstable situation following the decline of the Baathist regime, thereby raising alarms in Ankara.

Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa echoed similar sentiments, attributing Israeli assaults to expansionist ambitions rather than valid security concerns. He emphasized that these aggressive moves are unjustified and indicative of Israel’s intent to take advantage of Syria’s turmoil, stating the need for a strategic response.

Since the onset of Syria’s civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted numerous airstrikes aimed primarily at government and Iranian-linked military positions. This military activity escalated following President Bashar Assad’s removal, as Israel asserted its authority over military locations, including military sites with weapon depots in southern Syria, signaling a blatant disregard for prior disengagement agreements.

In addition to addressing Israeli actions, Fidan also discussed the threats posed by the PKK terrorist group, specifically highlighting its Syrian affiliate, the YPG. He articulated Turkey’s willingness to engage with the new administration in Damascus to tackle the PKK/YPG menace and outlined Turkey’s readiness to assume control of camps housing Daesh terrorists if necessary.

Fidan further remarked on the implications of U.S. policy changes, suggesting that they underline the urgency for Turkey to foster its own regional alliances to maintain security, particularly in light of uncertainties surrounding NATO’s future. He underscored Turkey’s commitment to be an active participant in any evolving European security framework, given the unpredictability of U.S. involvement going forward.

In summary, Turkey’s leadership, particularly through Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, has expressed significant concern over Israel’s ongoing military actions in Syria, which are viewed as aggressive and expansionist. As tensions persist, Turkey aims to confront the dual challenges posed by Israeli incursions and the PKK/YPG threat while contemplating its future within European security contexts, especially in light of shifting U.S. policies.

Original Source: www.dailysabah.com