Turkish FM voices concern about rising tensions in Syria

(MENAFN) Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan voiced serious concerns about escalating conflicts in Syria, particularly the clashes between Druze and Bedouin communities in the southern region, cautioning that such tensions threaten the country’s unity and territorial integrity.

Fidan stressed the necessity for Türkiye’s diplomatic intervention, noting signs of mobilization among various groups throughout Syria. “We saw statements and actions from these groups across the north, south, east, and west of the country. As Türkiye, we had to issue our warning because we are committed to Syria's unity and territorial integrity,” he said.

In an interview with a Turkish broadcaster , Fidan reaffirmed that Türkiye’s foremost goal in Syria is to promote regional stability and security—a stance aligned with neighboring countries, the European Union, and the United States.

He emphasized Türkiye’s participation in international efforts aimed at fostering a peaceful transition in Syria, mentioning encouraging responses from the newly formed Syrian government. Fidan also pointed to strategic interests of external players like Israel, accusing some foreign actors of attempting to exploit Syria’s instability. “We've always seen that some actors wanted Syria to remain in a state of chaos, to prevent its strengthening,” he remarked.

Addressing the recent violence in Suwayda province between Druze and Bedouin groups, Fidan condemned the attacks and called for swift accountability. “This violence is unacceptable,” he said, asserting that no group should jeopardize Syria’s cohesion under the pretext of defending ethnic or religious identities.

“We oppose any action that jeopardizes national unity, whether it's suppressing ethnic or religious groups, or putting the country at risk in the name of protecting them,” Fidan concluded.

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