Turkey Reiterates Support for Syria’s Territorial Integrity, Ready to Contribute to Calm

Kokcha News Agency: In a significant diplomatic move, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan held a phone call with his Syrian counterpart, Asaad al-Shaibani, on Friday, discussing the ongoing situation in southern Syria. Fidan reiterated Turkey’s support for Syria’s territorial integrity, unity, and sovereignty, emphasizing Ankara’s commitment to regional stability.

During the call, Fidan expressed Turkey’s readiness to contribute to efforts aimed at restoring calm in Syria, which has been ravaged by years of civil war. He also condemned Israel’s intervention in Syrian affairs, calling on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to cease actions that threaten regional stability and the future of the Syrian people.

Background on the Conflict in Southern Syria:
Clashes have been ongoing in the western and northern parts of Syria’s Suwayda province between Bedouin tribal forces and local armed Druze groups. The fighting began as limited skirmishes on Sunday but escalated after Syrian regime forces intervened. Dozens of soldiers were killed in retaliatory attacks by Druze factions, leading to a temporary ceasefire that quickly collapsed.

Israel, citing the protection of Druze communities, intensified its airstrikes across Syria, including strikes on the General Staff headquarters and the presidential palace in Damascus on Wednesday.

Recent Developments:
On Thursday night, the Syrian presidency announced a new agreement mediated by Arab and American parties. Under the deal, regime troops began withdrawing from Suwayda to de-escalate tensions.

Turkey has long been involved in the Syrian conflict, supporting opposition groups and conducting military operations in northern Syria. However, Ankara has also maintained a diplomatic stance supporting Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, particularly in the face of external interventions by countries like Israel.