Syrian Foreign Minister Criticizes Israeli Threats

(MENAFN) During a press briefing in Ankara with his Turkish counterpart, Hakan Fidan, Syria’s Foreign Minister Assad al-Shaibani cautioned that persistent Israeli threats continue to undermine Syrian sovereignty and endanger the safety of its citizens.

Al-Shaibani underscored the persistent foreign interference in Syria, characterizing some actions as “direct and seeking to weaken the Syrian state and create a fragile division.”

He emphasized that such external interventions jeopardize the nation’s stability.

Addressing the status of the Druze community, the minister affirmed their integral role within Syrian society, dismissing Israeli assertions to the contrary.

He stated, “There is no intent to exclude them (Druza community) in any way,” affirming the community's inclusion.

He also accused Israel of provoking sectarian unrest in the region, saying, “What happened in Suwayda was instigated by Israel to sow sectarian discord in the region,” suggesting external manipulation behind recent tensions.

Highlighting the partnership between Syria and Türkiye, al-Shaibani noted shared interests and mutual threats, warning against any support that might foster disorder in Syria.

He remarked, “We share many common interests and threats with Türkiye, and caution against supporting chaos in Syria.”

Together with Fidan, al-Shaibani stressed the necessity of collaboration on security and military affairs to protect borders and combat terrorism effectively.

Their joint emphasis on coordination aims to enhance regional stability.

Al-Shaibani also criticized the “Hasakah Conference,” held by representatives from northeastern Syria, labeling it a breach of the March 10 agreement with the YPG terrorist organization.

He viewed the conference as undermining national unity.

On March 10, the Syrian presidency declared the signing of a pact to integrate the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into official state institutions.

This agreement reaffirmed Syria’s territorial integrity and firmly rejected any division attempts.

MENAFN13082025000045017167ID1109923070