Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed significant worries over Israel’s military activities in Syria, warning that Israel views Arab nations as threats. He categorically labeled Israel’s actions as provocations amid a geopolitical environment fraught with change, especially following the civil war in Syria. Fidan also highlighted the ongoing threat of the PKK and emphasized Turkey’s readiness to act regarding the PKK/YPG in Syria.
Turkey is increasingly apprehensive regarding Israel’s military actions in southern Syria, as expressed by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in a recent interview. He articulated concerns that Israel perceives Arab and Muslim nations as threats, indicating a dangerous trend. With the backdrop of Israel’s actions following the fall of the Baathist regime in Syria, Turkey’s trepidations regarding Israel’s provocations are growing.
Fidan labeled Israel’s military incursions and troop movements in Syria as “provocations,” emphasizing that the notion of weakness among neighboring states is flawed. Syrian interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa also condemned Israeli strikes, asserting that they reveal expansionist intentions masked as security concerns. The ongoing Israeli aggression exploits the collapse of the Syrian regime, indicating a dangerous reconfiguration in the region.
Since the onset of Syria’s civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted numerous airstrikes targeting government forces and Iranian-associated positions. Most recently, Israeli military actions have included attacks on strategic sites in southern Syria with the intent of demilitarizing the area, which contradicts prior agreements.
In addition, Fidan highlighted the ongoing threat posed by the PKK terrorist organization and its Syrian affiliate, the YPG. He reiterated that the PKK/YPG represents a significant security challenge for Turkey, asserting that if necessary, Turkey could reclaim control over PKK/YPG-held camps in northeastern Syria. Fidan also underscored the potential for Turkey to combat ISIS independently of U.S. support, should it withdraw from the region.
The PKK, designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the United States, and the European Union, has claimed over 40,000 lives over four decades. Turkey has persistently urged the PKK/YPG to dissipate or face military consequences, similar to the new stance of Syria’s government against armed groups. Fidan’s commentary on the implications of U.S. foreign policy under President Trump suggests a shift in security dynamics, advocating for a collaborative regional approach to maintain stability and underscore Turkey’s historical contributions to NATO and European security.
In conclusion, Turkey’s concerns regarding Israel’s military activities in Syria reflect a broader apprehension of regional stability amid shifting power dynamics. Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s remarks underscore the perceived threats to Turkey from perceived expansionist Israeli policies and terrorist organizations like the PKK/YPG. The future of European security architecture may also be at stake, indicating the need for strategic reassessments among neighboring countries and alliances.
Original Source: www.dailysabah.com
