Turkish foreign minister warns about escalating tensions in Syria

ISTANBUL/ANKARA

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed concern about developments in Syria, particularly clashes between Druze and Bedouin groups in the south, warning that tensions could pose a threat to the country’s unity and integrity.

Fidan emphasized that Türkiye had to intervene diplomatically as several groups across Syria showed signs of mobilization.

“We saw statements and actions from these groups across the north, south, east, and west of the country. As Türkiye, we had to issue our warning because we are committed to Syria’s unity and territorial integrity,” he said.

In an interview with Turkish broadcaster, NTV, Fidan reiterated that Türkiye’s primary objective in Syria is to ensure regional stability and security, a sentiment shared by neighboring countries, the EU and the US.

He highlighted that Türkiye has been part of a broader international effort to support a peaceful transition in Syria, with recent positive responses from the new Syrian government.

Fidan noted the strategic interests of actors like Israel, claiming that some external parties sought to exploit Syria’s instability.

“We’ve always seen that some actors wanted Syria to remain in a state of chaos, to prevent its strengthening,” he said.

– Diplomatic efforts, calls for unity

Condemning the violence between the Druze and Bedouin communities in Suwayda province, Fidan urged swift punishment of those responsible.

“This violence is unacceptable,” he said, indicating that no group should threaten Syria’s unity under the guise of protecting ethnic or religious identities.

“We oppose any action that jeopardizes national unity, whether it’s suppressing ethnic or religious groups, or putting the country at risk in the name of protecting them,” he said.

Türkiye, according to Fidan, wants all parties to respect the rights of Syria’s ethnic and religious groups while ensuring that the Syrian government remains the only authority holding weapons.

“The state should not use its power to suppress groups, but at the same time, no one should hold weapons outside of state control,” said Fidan.

Regarding ongoing efforts, Fidan noted that Türkiye has consistently delivered that message to Israel through intelligence channels and diplomatic talks, stressing that no country should threaten Syria’s territorial integrity.

– Call for SDG’s integration into Syrian government

Turning to the terror organization SDF, the group linked to the PKK/YPG, Fidan emphasized the need for it to quickly reach an agreement with Syria’s central government.

“It’s essential for the SDG to make a voluntary agreement with the central government and implement it sincerely, without any conditions,” he said.

“If they seek security guarantees, Türkiye is ready to be a witness to this agreement,” he said, reiterating that maintaining multiple armed groups within Syria is unacceptable and Syria’s future should be free from external military influence.

Fidan noted the importance of respecting the rights and freedoms of all Syrians, including the Kurdish community, and ensuring that any agreements benefit all citizens, not just particular ethnic or religious groups. He emphasized the need for dialogue and a peaceful resolution, particularly in light of the March 10 agreement signed between the government in Damascus and the SDF, which he hopes will be implemented without further violence.

– Support for legitimate cooperation in defense

On the issue of defense cooperation, Fidan underscored that Türkiye supports legitimate military partnerships, including with Syria, especially counterterrorism and the restructuring of Syria’s armed forces.

He stressed that Syria’s military institutions need significant technical assistance to restore security and order within the country.

“Syria is in dire need of help to rebuild its institutions. It’s impossible to establish security, order, or provide services without restructuring key state institutions like the military, health care, education, and energy sectors,” he stated.

He added that Türkiye is committed to helping Syria achieve stability, alongside regional nations.

The conflict in Suwayda province began July 13, when clashes erupted between Druze and Bedouin groups.

Fidan pointed to unresolved issues dating to the imperial era and expressed concerns that Israel had attempted to obstruct efforts for a neutral intervention by the Syrian government.

“Our objection has always been that Syria’s government should have the authority to intervene in such issues,” he stated.

Despite minor skirmishes that have continued, diplomatic talks between the parties have led to progress, with government forces and police deployed to the region. Fidan indicated that there is dialogue to ensure that the situation is brought under control.

Fidan also praised Syrian President Ahmed al-Shara for his inclusive political approach, noting that the government was working to mediate and find peaceful solutions for internal conflicts.

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