Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan discussed a recent rebel offensive in Syria with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, emphasizing Turkey’s support for reducing tensions. Fidan expressed opposition to instability and highlighted the need for a political resolution in Syria. The conversation followed significant clashes in Aleppo and included calls for ceasefires in ongoing regional conflicts, reflecting Turkey’s broader diplomatic interests.
On Sunday, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, where he affirmed Turkey’s support for initiatives aimed at alleviating tensions in Syria following a significant rebel assault. Fidan emphasized Turkey’s opposition to developments that exacerbate instability in the region and advocated for the conclusion of the political dialogue between the Syrian regime and opposition groups, which he believes is essential for restoring peace and security in the country.
This dialogue was prompted by recent conflicts in Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, which rebel factions aligned with Turkey seized from government control. The weekend saw intensified clashes involving Turkish-backed rebels engaging both government forces and Kurdish YPG fighters, further complicating the already volatile situation in northern Aleppo. Turkey categorically views the YPG as a terror entity linked to the PKK, which has historically posed a threat to Turkish national security.
Moreover, Fidan noted the urgent need for a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict and expressed hopes for the stability of the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah. He urged Israel to honor its commitments to ensure that peace in the region is maintained. Notably, discussions also traversed issues concerning Ukraine and the South Caucasus, reflecting Turkey’s broader diplomatic agendas.
The Syrian civil war has persisted since 2011, with multiple factions vying for power, leading to widespread chaos and humanitarian crises. Turkey has intervened in the conflict primarily to thwart the influence of the YPG, which it considers a terrorist organization. The complexity of the Syrian situation is further exacerbated by external influences and geopolitical dynamics involving various international players, including the United States, Russia, and Iran. Recently, there has been a notable escalation of violence with the rebel offensive in Aleppo, which raises concerns regarding regional stability and security.
In summary, Turkey’s position on the recent developments in Syria underscores its commitment to reducing regional tensions and advocating for a political resolution. The recent rebel offensive in Aleppo illustrates the ongoing volatility in Syria, further complicating Turkey’s strategic interests, particularly concerning the fight against terrorism and the promotion of stability in the region. The conversations between Fidan and Blinken highlight Turkey’s proactive role in seeking diplomatic solutions amidst escalating conflicts.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
