Turkish FM warns against repeating decades-long PKK conflict, calls for civilised resolution

Fidan recently urged citizens not to be alarmed during ongoing security operations, expressing confidence that all threats will be eliminated. He acknowledged armed groups’ presence not only in Iraq and Syria but also in Iran, stressing the need for continuous monitoring.

Fidan noted that over the past decade, Türkiye has successfully expelled the PKK from its territory, but the group remains a challenge in neighbouring Syria and Iraq.

He emphasised that the Turkish government refuses to be indifferent and seeks a more civilised resolution that avoids violence. Efforts focus on preventing the PKK from burdening the people, the organisation itself, and the region.

Reiterating Türkiye’s long-standing position, Fidan stated Syria’s territorial integrity is vital to Türkiye’s national security. He explained that instability in Syria directly affects Türkiye through migration, economic strain, and insecurity. “Our priority is peace, calm, and lasting security. We have no hegemonic ambitions,” he said.

Fidan warned of foreign actors exploiting Syria’s fragility, singling out Israel under Prime Minister Netanyahu, which he said openly seeks to benefit from a divided Syria.

The unrest in Suwayda has also drawn Ankara’s attention. Fidan pointed to historical tensions between Bedouin and Druze communities dating back to the post-Ottoman era, now exacerbated by what he described as Israeli interference obstructing the Syrian government’s efforts to restore order.

Despite challenges, he noted progress in recent Amman talks, praising dialogue efforts led by Ahmed al-Sharaa.

Türkiye supports cooperation with Syria’s central government on mutual concerns like state reconstruction and security. “There’s nothing unusual about cooperation. Syria urgently needs assistance rebuilding core institutions, and we are prepared to contribute,” Fidan said, linking this to Türkiye’s broader goal of regional stability through practical engagement.

He stressed that lasting peace depends on mutual recognition, inclusive governance, and political will to preserve sovereignty through cooperation rather than conflict. “No armed group should operate outside state control,” Fidan added, underscoring Türkiye’s transparent and balanced approach focused solely on security and stability.