Ankara: The Turkish Defense Ministry has issued a stern warning regarding the potential dangers posed by Israeli attacks on Qatar and, more recently, Syria, which it claims would exacerbate regional tensions and undermine ongoing peace efforts.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Turkish Defense Ministry Spokesman Colonel Zeki Akturk addressed a press conference today, condemning what he described as a “treacherous attack” on a Hamas delegation in Qatar. He asserted that Israel “adopts terrorism as a state policy and thrives on conflict,” adding that this incident represents yet another unlawful attack in the region.
Colonel Akturk further criticized Israel’s actions, stating that the attack on the Hamas negotiating delegation in Doha demonstrates Israel’s intent to deepen instability, thrive on conflict, and oppose peace efforts. He urged the international community to curb Israel’s actions to prevent further regional catastrophe, drawing parallels with the recent events in Qatar.
He also expressed Turkey’s unwavering support for Qatar, condemning the attack as a blatant violation of Qatari sovereignty. Akturk highlighted that Israel’s recent military activities in Syria are a “flagrant violation of international law” and an outright assault on Syria’s sovereignty, actions that further escalate tensions and hinder peace initiatives.
Addressing allegations of Israeli attacks on Turkish military sites in Syria, Akturk clarified that these reports are false. He affirmed that Turkey’s operations in Syria are conducted within the bounds of international law and self-defense rights. He also mentioned that Turkey has intensified efforts to restructure the Syrian Armed Forces, following a Memorandum of Understanding for Joint Training and Consultations with the Syrian government signed on August 13. These efforts aim to bolster Syria’s defense and security capabilities, promoting the principle of “one state, one army” for regional stability.
Colonel Akturk concluded by calling on the international community to take decisive measures to deter Israel’s actions that threaten regional peace. He reaffirmed the Turkish Armed Forces’ commitment to protecting national borders and interests, combating terrorism, supporting regional and international stability, and advancing the national defense industry.