Multiple conflicts are converging in war-torn Syria amidst escalating regional tensions. Last week, armed groups opposing Damascus launched an offensive in northwestern Syria, raising questions about Turkey’s role. The offensive, led by the terrorist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, saw significant gains against Syrian government forces. Observers noted that the offensive originated from Idlib province, where Turkey has a military presence and influence. Despite claims that foreign actors were behind the offensive, Turkey still bears responsibility, according to analysts.
The Syrian military, supported by Russian forces, has since pushed back against the militants, but fighting continues in several areas. This offensive marked a significant territorial loss for the Assad government, which has been facing opposition groups in Idlib province since 2020. Russia and Iran support the Syrian regime, while Turkey backs anti-Assad groups. The attack on Aleppo was led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, considered a terrorist organization by all parties involved in the conflict.
The recent developments in Syria coincide with broader regional dynamics, including an Israel-Hezbollah ceasefire deal. The offensive in Aleppo may have been prompted by a perceived opportunity to weaken Hezbollah, Iran, and Russia in Syria. The situation in Syria reflects wider conflicts in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran and its allies. The offensive in Aleppo is seen as part of a strategy to diminish Iran’s influence in the region. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi paid a visit to Ankara, where he engaged in discussions with his Turkish counterpart, Fidan, regarding the unfolding events in northwestern Syria.
During a joint press conference, Araqchi characterized his meeting with Fidan as “constructive,” while also acknowledging the “differences” that exist between Tehran and Ankara. He reiterated claims that Israel and the United States had a significant role in the recent Aleppo offensive.
In response, Fidan dismissed the idea that the offensive was a result of covert foreign intervention, stating to reporters, “It would be incorrect to attribute recent developments in Syria to foreign intervention.”
The situation was further complicated by a separate offensive launched from areas north of Aleppo by the Turkey-backed Syrian National Army (SNA), previously known as the Free Syrian Army. SNA fighters reportedly captured several towns in Aleppo from the YPG, the Syrian branch of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK).
The PKK, labeled a terrorist group by Ankara, Brussels, and Washington, has been engaged in armed conflict against Turkey for over four decades. Turkey has conducted multiple offensives into northern Syria and Iraq with the aim of neutralizing the PKK and its Syrian affiliate.
The Turkey-backed SNA’s operation against the YPG was portrayed as distinct from the Aleppo offensive to garner legitimacy in Turkish public opinion. This move was seen as an attempt to weaken the YPG/PKK and push it east of the Euphrates, aligning with Turkey’s long-standing goals.
The YPG’s involvement in the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), a U.S.-backed group fighting ISIS in Syria, further complicates the situation. Recent reports indicated clashes between government forces and SDF fighters in Syria’s Deir al-Zor province.
The article also highlighted the ongoing challenges in the region, with contributions from Reuters and the Associated Press. Please rewrite this sentence.
Source link
