Turkey has begun constructing a military base at Menagh Air Base in northern Aleppo, previously controlled by Russia. A recent report revealed large-scale military mobilization by Turkish forces in northern Syria, indicating Ankara’s intent to strengthen its military presence. While Turkey denied plans for new bases, reports suggest otherwise, emphasizing ongoing ambitions and tensions between Turkey and Israel.
The Turkish Army has initiated the construction of a military base at the Menagh Air Base located in northern Aleppo. This site was previously under Russian control until Moscow withdrew its forces from Syria last year. The establishment of this base signals Turkey’s continued military presence and influence in the region.
Recent reports from the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights indicate significant military mobilization by Turkish forces, which also involves deploying mine engineering teams in key northern Syrian villages such as Mar’anaz, Al-Alqamiyah, and Menagh. This move exemplifies Ankara’s intent to solidify its military foothold.
While Turkey denied intentions to create additional military bases last month, a senior Turkish official indicated that they are developing a “roadmap” to enhance the security and defense capabilities of Syria’s new regime. The official emphasized, “As per the requests of Syria’s new administration, we are working on a joint roadmap to strengthen the Syrian army.”
Contradicting Turkey’s official stance, a Bloomberg report uncovered that Turkish officials acknowledged contemplating the establishment of military bases in Syria, along with plans to provide arms and military training to the newly formed Syrian Armed Forces.
In a recent statement, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan cautioned that external interventions in Syria must cease, particularly addressing actions by Israel and other nations. He asserted, “Otherwise, there will be negative consequences that will affect everyone.” Following this, Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs rejected Erdoğan’s claims and cautioned against Turkey’s aggressive stance in the region.
Erdoğan’s past statements reflect Turkey’s ambitions in northern Syria, expressing intentions to possibly annex this territory. Military insights from two years ago revealed Turkey’s plans to establish bases in Aleppo province, aiming to secure key crossings connecting Aleppo to Idlib, which emphasizes the ongoing tensions and ambitions in the region.
In summary, Turkey’s military base establishment at Menagh signifies a deeper commitment to its influence in northern Syria. Despite official denials about expanding military infrastructure, indications suggest a strategic plan to bolster the new Syrian regime’s capabilities. Erdoğan’s remarks underscore the escalating tensions with Israel, highlighting a complex situation where Turkey seeks to expand its territorial control and military influence amidst regional conflicts.
Original Source: www.jewishpress.com
