Erdogan claims 'principled' Syria policy amid secret 'Israel' talks
2 Min Read
While publicly avoiding confrontation, Turkey continues to bolster its presence in the north through Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), effectively occupying swathes of Syrian land.
-
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan speaks at the opening ceremony of Antalya Diplomacy Forum (@Communications)
At the Antalya Diplomacy Forum on Friday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed his country's diplomatic efforts concerning Syria, stating that Ankara remains in communication with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump to address developments in the war-ravaged nation.
"We are a country that is guided by principles rather than hidden agendas in its foreign policy. We are in understanding and dialogue with honorable Trump and Putin on the issue of Syria's territorial integrity," Erdogan said.
He also noted Turkey's strengthening ties with Moscow, stating, "Our relations with Russia are developing. We aim to advance relations."
This comes in light of heightened regional maneuvering over the future of Syria following the collapse of the Assad government late last year. While Erdogan presented Ankara's actions as principled and cooperative, recent developments suggest otherwise.
Turkish and Israeli officials have reportedly held direct talks in Azerbaijan, drawing criticism from analysts who see the discussions as a renewed attempt to partition Syria along foreign interests—a modern-day Sykes-Picot arrangement.
Read more: 'Israel' will confront Turkey militarily if necessary: Israeli media
According to Israeli media, both sides have discussed potential red lines and territorial divisions, with "Israel" opposing any Turkish expansion beyond northern Syria and expressing alarm over Ankara's alleged plans to establish military bases near Palmyra.
Former Israeli Navy Commander Eli Marom bluntly stated, "Syria will no longer remain the same state—it will stay divided," acknowledging what many observers view as a coordinated effort to undermine Syrian sovereignty and unity.
While publicly avoiding confrontation, Turkey continues to bolster its presence in the north through Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) government, effectively occupying swathes of Syrian land.
Simultaneously, "Israel" has increased its military footprint in the south, including targeted strikes on key Syrian infrastructure, all under the guise of neutralizing threats.
On Thursday, Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri, the spiritual leader of the Druze community in Syria, announced that there is no agreement between the Druze and the Damascus government, and fighters in Suwayda are prepared to engage in combat and repel government forces if necessary, thus reflecting a significant challenge to the new Syrian authorities.
