Turkey Supports Initiatives to Decrease Tensions in Syria

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan discussed with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken the escalated tensions in Syria following a significant rebel offensive in Aleppo. Fidan reiterated Turkey’s backing for efforts to reduce instability and prevent terrorist activities. These developments coincide with a fragile ceasefire in Lebanon and prompts international discourse on Gaza, Ukraine, and the South Caucasus.

Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan engaged in discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken regarding the recent escalation of conflict in Syria. He conveyed Turkey’s commitment to backing measures aimed at lowering tensions in the war-torn country. Fidan emphasized the necessity of finalizing the political dialogue between the Syrian regime and opposition to foster stability and declared that Turkey would not tolerate any terrorist actions against itself or Syrian civilians.

This dialogue follows a significant offensive by Syrian rebels, bolstered by Turkish-backed factions, which resulted in the capture of Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, from forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad. Pro-Turkish rebel groups have also engaged in clashes against both government forces and Kurdish YPG fighters in northern Aleppo. Turkey regards the YPG as an extension of the PKK, which has been involved in a long-standing insurrection against the Turkish state.

The renewed hostilities coincided with a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, with the UN’s envoy to Syria warning that this fighting poses substantial threats to regional and global security. Fidan, during his conversation with Blinken, urged Israel to fulfill its commitments to solidify the Lebanon ceasefire and advocated for an urgent ceasefire in Gaza. Discussions also touched on the situations in Ukraine and the South Caucasus, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the geopolitical tensions in the region.

The current conflict in Syria has been ongoing for over a decade, influenced by various factions including the Assad regime, rebel groups, and Kurdish forces. Turkey’s involvement has primarily centered on its opposition to the Kurdish YPG, which it deems a terrorist organization linked to the PKK. The recent rebel offensive in Aleppo underscores the fragile dynamics of the Syrian war and the potential for regional instability and international repercussions. Amidst these tensions, diplomatic efforts continue to seek resolutions to the crisis, fostering dialogue between various stakeholders.

In summary, Turkey expresses its support for initiatives aimed at de-escalating the conflict in Syria, emphasizing the importance of completing the political process between opposing factions. Recent developments, particularly the offensive in Aleppo, demonstrate the ongoing volatility in the region, which has far-reaching implications for both regional and international security. Continuous dialogues with international partners, including the United States, remain critical as tensions persist in Syria and the surrounding areas.

Original Source: www.newarab.com