Türkiye condemns Israel’s settlement policies in Golan Heights
Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk, Press and Public Relations Advisor of the Ministry of National Defense (MoD), made statements at a press briefing held at the Ministry. (Ministry of National Defense - Anadolu Agency)
The Ministry of National Defense of Türkiye strongly condemned Israel’s decision to expand illegal settlements in the Golan Heights, a territory occupied since 1967.
The ministry’s spokesperson Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk criticized Israel’s ongoing actions, stating, “Israel continues its unlawful conduct in Syria through land occupation. A cease-fire must be declared immediately to ensure regional stability.”
Akturk also noted that Israel’s recent actions in Golan should not overshadow ongoing humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where civilian casualties remain a pressing issue.
Ongoing counterterrorism operations in Syria and Iraq
Akturk outlined the continued efforts of the Turkish Armed Forces (TAF) in counter-terrorism operations targeting groups such as PKK/KCK/PYD/YPG, Daesh and FETO. Since the beginning of the year, Türkiye has eliminated 2,959 terrorists—1,438 in Iraq and 1,521 in northern Syria. In the last week alone, 41 terrorists were eliminated, while three surrendered to border security posts.
Akturk emphasized that Türkiye’s counterterrorism preparations and measures will persist until the terrorist group PKK/YPG disarms and foreign fighters leave Syria.
( Erçin Ertürk – Anadolu Agency )
Türkiye’s diplomatic efforts for regional peace
Addressing Türkiye’s commitment to regional stability, Akturk reaffirmed the nation’s support for Syria’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. He emphasized Türkiye’s ongoing collaboration with the new Syrian administration and the Syrian National Army (SNA) to address threats posed by PKK/YPG-held territories.
Regarding comments from the U.S. State Department about a ceasefire agreement with PKK/YPG, Akturk dismissed the claim, suggesting it was a misstatement. He reiterated that Türkiye does not engage in negotiations with terrorist organizations.
Defense and training initiatives by Turkish Armed Forces
Akturk detailed TAF’s recent activities, including participation in multinational exercises and advancements in the domestic defense industry. Notable developments include:
- Deployment of a motorized infantry unit to Bosnia and Herzegovina under EUFOR Althea, beginning January 2025.
- Participation of two F-16 jets in Romania’s Integrated Air and Missile Defense Operations.
- Ongoing trials for the TCG Akhisar, a domestically produced patrol vessel with the highest localization rate to date.
