Ankara: Turkey affirmed its determination to continue its efforts aimed at establishing stability in Syria and strengthening cooperation with Damascus in defense and security fields. In a press briefing held in Ankara, Turkish Defense Ministry Spokesperson Zeki Ak Trke stated that Turkey supports Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity in line with the principle of 'one state, one army,' noting that close cooperation between the two sides continues to enhance Syria's defense capabilities.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Ak Trke explained that the recent meeting in Damascus between Ilkay Altindag, Director General of Defense and Security at the Turkish Ministry of Defense, and Syrian Defense Minister Merhaf Abu Qasra, falls within this framework, emphasizing Ankara's continued support for regional stability.

He added that on October 21, the Turkish Parliament voted to extend the deployment of Turkish forces in Syria and Iraq for an additional three years starting from October 30, 2025, and to extend participation in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) for two more years beginning October 31, 2025.

The spokesperson stressed that the Turkish Armed Forces will continue taking necessary measures in accordance with international law against any threats to Turkey's national security or attempts to undermine the territorial integrity of Iraq and Syria.

Regarding the Gaza situation, Ak Trke urged Israel to fully comply with the ceasefire agreement and to allow the entry of humanitarian aid and debris removal equipment. He also reiterated Ankara's rejection of the Israeli parliament's illegal decision to annex the occupied West Bank, describing it as an aggressive and provocative move that hinders efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region.