Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has assured U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken of Turkey’s support for efforts to reduce tensions in Syria. This follows a significant rebel offensive that captured Aleppo from government forces. Fidan emphasized the need for a political resolution and condemned any actions that could destabilize the region, also discussing the situation in Gaza and Ukraine.
Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan recently held discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken regarding the recent escalation of violence in Syria. During the conversation, Fidan emphasized Turkey’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions within the war-affected region. He articulated Turkey’s stance against any developments that could contribute to instability and underscored the necessity of finalizing the political process between the Syrian regime and opposition forces to pave the way for lasting peace and security.
This dialogue follows a significant rebel offensive launched by Syrian factions allied with Turkish forces, which resulted in the capture of Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, from President Bashar al-Assad’s forces. The surge in fighting has raised alarms, as it involves attacks not only against government troops but also against Kurdish YPG fighters, whom Turkey regards as an extension of the PKK, a group responsible for an enduring insurgency against the Turkish state.
The offensive commenced concurrently with a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah, prompting warnings from the United Nations about the risks this conflict poses to regional and international stability. Fidan urged a permanent truce in Lebanon and called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza during his discussions with Blinken. They also addressed issues concerning Ukraine and the South Caucasus during their conversation.
Turkey’s involvement in the Syrian conflict is deeply rooted in its national security concerns, particularly regarding the Kurdish YPG, which Turkey considers a terrorist affiliate of the PKK. The conflict in Syria has persisted for over a decade, resulting in significant humanitarian crises and geopolitical tensions. With various factions vying for control, the situation remains precarious, prompting international stakeholders such as the United States to engage in diplomatic efforts aimed at conflict resolution. Turkey’s recent support for rebel forces in Aleppo reflects its strategic interests in the region, as well as its ongoing efforts to curtail Kurdish influence while promoting a political solution to the Syrian conflict.
In conclusion, the discussions between Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken signify a collaborative approach towards addressing the escalating tensions in Syria. Turkey’s commitment to reducing instability and supporting a political framework reflects its broader goals in the region, while the rebel offensive in Aleppo underscores the complexities of the ongoing conflict. Diplomatic engagement is crucial in fostering a durable ceasefire and ensuring the safety of civilians amid this enduring crisis.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
