No plan for Turkish military bases in Syria: Defense Ministry

After the weekly press briefing by the Ministry of National Defense (MOD), the ministry answered several important questions, particularly regarding the expulsion of lieutenants, Türkiye’s stance on Syria, and the ongoing Eurofighter Typhoon purchase

Following recent speculation, the ministry responded to claims about establishing new Turkish military bases in Syria, stating that there are no plans for such a move.

Why it matters?

The statement clarifies Türkiye’s position on military involvement in Syria, emphasizing its focus on regional security and the fight against terrorism rather than territorial expansion.

This response comes amid ongoing discussions regarding the country’s strategy in the Middle East.

Details of remarks regarding Syria

• Focus on territorial integrity, counterterrorism
  MoD officials clarified that Türkiye’s main priority in Syria remains preserving the country’s territorial integrity, maintaining regional stability, and eliminating terrorist elements, particularly the PYD/YPG in northern Syria. “Türkiye’s goal is to support Syria’s stability, not to establish new military bases,” a MoD official emphasized.
• Engagement with the new Syrian government
  As part of its ongoing commitment to regional security, Türkiye has engaged with Syria’s new government to help stabilize the country. The MoD confirmed that recent discussions between Turkish and Syrian officials focused on countering terrorism and enhancing Syria’s sovereignty.
• “Both sides agree on the importance of securing Syria’s territorial integrity and clearing the region of terrorist organizations,” the Ministry stated.
• Rumors about new Turkish military bases in Syria
  The MoD strongly denied rumors circulating about Türkiye’s intention to build two new military bases in Syria. “It is premature to discuss such plans. Türkiye’s focus remains on supporting Syria’s sovereignty and working toward regional stability,” the Ministry explained.
• Collaborative efforts to strengthen Syrian military
  MoD also pointed out that Türkiye is working with Syria to improve the Syrian military’s capacity. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to ensure that Syria can defend its own territory and maintain peace in the region. “Together, we are developing a joint roadmap to enhance Syria’s military capacity and address security concerns,” MoD sources added.

Other remarks

• On Lieutenants Expelled Over Unauthorized Oath
  MoD officials were asked about the recent expulsion of lieutenants who read an unauthorized and unlawful oath during the Army Academy’s Flag Transfer and Graduation Ceremony.
• The ministry clarified that these actions were a result of organized insubordination, not the content of the oath. “This was a collective act of disobedience that disrupted the discipline and order of the Turkish Armed Forces,” a MoD representative stated.

• On Eurofighter Typhoon negotiations
  Regarding the Eurofighter Typhoon procurement, the MoD confirmed that the purchase of 40 jets is still in progress. Discussions with the UK Ministry of Defence are ongoing, and Türkiye’s request remains for new, rather than second-hand, aircraft. “We are waiting for price proposals to finalize the purchase and determine the configuration of the jets,” MoD explained.

• On Türkiye’s stance regarding Gaza
  MoD reiterated Türkiye’s position on the ongoing situation in Gaza, particularly its condemnation of Israel’s actions, including blocking UNRWA operations in Palestinian territories. Türkiye continues to advocate for the recognition of the Palestinian State and calls for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. “Our efforts to provide humanitarian assistance will continue, including our recent delivery of 24 tons of aid to Jordan for Gaza,” MoD added.