Türkiye leads four-nation coalition in fight against Daesh terrorist group

Türkiye is spearheading a four-nation coalition with Iraq, Jordan, and Syria to counter the resurgence of Daesh in the region. The initiative aims to eliminate the threat posed by the terrorist group and weaken the justification for U.S. support of the PKK/YPG in Syria.

Regional coalition to counter Daesh

The coalition, formed in response to concerns over Daesh’s reemergence, marks a new phase in regional security cooperation.

Foreign ministers, defense ministers, and intelligence chiefs from Türkiye, Iraq, Jordan, and Syria are set to meet in Jordan in the coming days to coordinate efforts against the group.

Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz addressed the issue during a parliamentary session, stating that Türkiye remains committed to counterterrorism efforts. “Daesh’s presence in the region must be completely eradicated, and we are working closely with our partners to ensure security and stability,” Yilmaz said.

Strategic measures against terrorism

The coalition’s strategy will include intelligence-sharing and coordinated military operations, with a focus on neutralizing Daesh’s remaining elements.

Yilmaz emphasized that Türkiye has proposed concrete solutions for the management of Daesh detainees and prison facilities in Syria, ensuring that terrorist elements do not regroup.

“Our approach considers multiple options, including cooperation between Türkiye and Syria or broader coordination with Iraq. Every possible measure is on the table,” Yilmaz added.

Türkiye’s response to US troop withdrawal

Amid discussions on a potential U.S. military withdrawal from Syria, Yilmaz stated that Türkiye is closely monitoring developments. “The decision ultimately belongs to the U.S., but we have long been in negotiations regarding security priorities,” he noted.

The initiative directly challenges the U.S. narrative that the YPG remains essential in the fight against Daesh.

Türkiye has consistently opposed support for the YPG, which it considers a terrorist organization linked to the PKK.

Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts in Palestine

Beyond regional security, Türkiye is also actively addressing the situation in Gaza. Yilmaz confirmed that Türkiye is mobilizing efforts through the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to counter U.S. proposals concerning Palestinian displacement.

“We have called for an emergency meeting of the OIC Ministerial Council, and we are working to convene the Executive Committee as well,” Yilmaz said, reaffirming Türkiye’s commitment to Palestinian rights.