Turkey Expands Military Influence in Syria: New Base at Menagh Air Base
Turkey is constructing a military base in northern Aleppo as part of a larger strategy to enhance its military influence in Syria. Reports indicate significant Turkish military mobilization and intentions to cooperate with the new Syrian regime. President Erdoğan has warned external nations against intervening in Syria, leading to heightened tensions with Israel.
The Turkish Army has initiated construction of a military base at Menagh Air Base, located in the northern Aleppo countryside. This area, previously under Russian control, was vacated by Moscow last year, paving the way for Turkey’s military buildup. Reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights detail a significant mobilization of Turkish forces, alongside deployment of mine engineering teams in the northern Syrian villages of Mar’anaz, Al-Alqamiyah, and Menagh, indicating Ankara’s intention to solidify its military presence in the region.
Despite prior denials regarding the establishment of additional military bases in Syria, Turkish officials have indicated a strategic cooperative effort with the newly formed Syrian regime, led by Ahmad al-Shara’a. They emphasize a joint initiative aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Syrian army, mentioning a roadmap for security and defense. However, conflicting reports reiterate that Turkey is actively considering not only the creation of military bases but also the provision of weapons and training for the new Syrian Armed Forces.
Additionally, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has publicly cautioned external nations to withdraw their involvement in Syria, particularly targeting Israel. He stated that aggressive actions by these nations could lead to adverse consequences. Conversely, Israel’s Foreign Ministry rebuked Erdoğan’s assertion, labeling Turkey as an aggressive actor in the region that should refrain from issuing threats.
Erdoğan’s comments were particularly alarming after a Hezbollah attack in July 2024, which resulted in the tragic loss of children in northern Israel. He used this incident to underline Turkey’s military capabilities and willingness to act assertively in regional conflicts. Furthermore, sources suggest Turkey has long pursued a gradual annexation strategy in northern Syria, with plans for military bases established near critical crossings connecting Aleppo and Idlib provinces, underscoring their ambitions in the area.
The construction of a Turkish military base in northern Aleppo marks a significant escalation in Turkey’s military operations in Syria. Despite denials of permanent bases, evidence suggests a comprehensive strategy to bolster military influence and support for the new Syrian regime. As tensions rise between Turkey and Israel, concerns over regional aggressiveness and territorial ambitions continue to grow, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in Syria.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
