Turkey, a supporter of rebel groups in Syria, dismissed the possibility of any “foreign intervention” in the offensive launched on Wednesday by a coalition of Islamist-led rebel organisations in northern Syria.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, during a joint press conference in Ankara with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, stated that it would be a mistake at this stage to interpret developments in Syria as being caused by foreign interference. He attributed the situation to the lack of dialogue between the Syrian government and opposition forces, asserting that the absence of such dialogue had exacerbated the problem.
Fidan emphasised that recent developments highlighted the need for Damascus to reach a compromise with its own people and the legitimate opposition. He expressed Turkey’s desire to avoid further escalation of the civil war and reaffirmed Ankara’s support for efforts to reduce tensions in Syria. This support was also conveyed in a phone call Fidan had with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken the previous day.
The Turkish foreign minister further stated that Ankara continues to support Syria’s territorial integrity and is taking precautions to address potential issues arising from recent developments in the region. He reiterated Turkey’s willingness to contribute to fostering dialogue between the Syrian government and the opposition if needed.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described his talks with Turkish officials as swift, direct, friendly, and constructive. He acknowledged shared concerns between Iran and Turkey, while noting that differences remain. Both countries agreed that Syria should not become a haven for terrorist organisations, he added.
Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s ongoing support for the Syrian government and military, emphasising that destabilising actions by Israel in the region, including in Syria, should not be overlooked.
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Source: ANA-MPA
