Turkey Warns Against Plans to Divide Syria and Affirms Support for its Unity

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated his warning against any attempts to divide Syria, affirming that his country is committed to supporting the unity and stability of Syrian territories. This came during a television interview reported by Anadolu Agency, where Fidan pointed to movements exploiting recent events in the province of Al-Suwayda, saying: "We must issue this warning because we want the unity and safety of Syria."

Fidan added: "We have always seen that there are parties that could benefit from dividing Syria, from its instability, from its lack of recovery, and that they want Syria to remain in a pit of despair, frustration, and negativity." He noted that some parties resorted to different scenarios after the failure of their plans due to Turkish diplomatic efforts and the international community, mentioning that Israel seeks to achieve such goals.

Fidan also addressed the recent clashes in Al-Suwayda, saying: "Frankly, we see that Israel is hindering the efforts of the central government to intervene neutrally in the conflict between Bedouin tribes and Druze." He emphasized that Turkey strategically objects to such interventions, pointing out that parties reached an understanding at the Amman meeting last week, but a branch of the Druze rejected the agreement and threatened to use weapons to achieve a "certain degree of independence."

Fidan stressed the importance of the Syrian government respecting the identity of all components of the people and their rights, affirming that bearing arms outside the framework of the state is unacceptable. He praised the policy of Syrian President Ahmed Al-Shar'a, saying: "He implemented a comprehensive policy that exceeded expectations," ensuring the neutrality of the government in local conflicts, with the necessity of holding the involved parties accountable.

The Turkish minister also affirmed that the stability of Syria is a priority for Turkish national security, stating: "Any attempt to divide it would pose a direct threat to Turkey's security, and we will intervene." He also discussed the agreement to integrate the SDF with Syrian institutions signed on March 10, expressing hope that the agreement will be implemented in a positive atmosphere.

It is worth mentioning that Fidan had renewed his country's support for Syria last week, affirming Ankara's rejection of any steps that threaten the unity of its territories.