Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan spoke with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken about reducing tensions in Syria amidst a significant rebel offensive that has captured Aleppo. He expressed Turkey’s opposition to any actions increasing instability and stressed the need to finalize the political process for peace. The discussions also touched on related regional issues including Gaza and Ukraine.
Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan engaged in a discussion with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken over the recent intensification of hostilities in Syria, affirming Turkey’s commitment to initiatives aimed at alleviating tension in the war-torn nation. According to ministry sources, Fidan emphasized Turkey’s opposition to developments that could exacerbate instability, advocating for the conclusion of the political dialogue between the Syrian regime and opposition to foster peace and safety. The conversation followed a significant offensive by Syrian rebels, backed by Turkish factions, which resulted in the capture of Aleppo, Syria’s second-largest city, from the forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad.
Furthermore, the rising violence in Aleppo has involved pro-Turkish groups targeting both government forces and the Kurdish YPG fighters, who Turkey regards as an extension of the PKK, a group that has long conducted an insurgency against the Turkish state. This surge in military activity coincided with a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah and raised alarms from the United Nations concerning its implications for broader regional security. During the call, Fidan also urged for a swift cessation of hostilities in Gaza and reiterated that Israel must uphold its commitments to ensure a lasting peace in Lebanon. Additionally, the two leaders discussed issues relating to Ukraine and the South Caucasus, highlighting the interconnected nature of regional conflicts.
The ongoing Syrian conflict has resulted in significant upheaval, with various factions competing for control. Turkey has been deeply involved, especially in terms of supporting opposition groups against the Assad regime and countering threats from Kurdish elements that it deems terrorist organizations. The recent offensive in Aleppo illustrates the persistence of hostilities in the region, with implications for both local and international stability. The conversation between Turkey and the United States reflects a broader effort to navigate these complexities while advocating for peace.
In conclusion, Turkey’s commitment to reducing tensions in Syria, as articulated by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, underscores the nation’s strategic priorities amidst ongoing conflict and instability. The discussions with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken not only address immediate concerns in Syria but also extend to broader regional dynamics, including the situations in Gaza and Ukraine. Such dialogues are crucial as the international community seeks to foster peace in a fractured landscape.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
