We will not remain silent against Israel’s attempts to occupy Syrian lands: President Erdogan

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a candid discussion with journalists on his return flight from Egypt, reflecting on his official visit and the evolving regional dynamics.

You mentioned earlier that the PKK’s Syrian affiliates, PYD and YPG, would eventually be abandoned by the U.S. Can we say that moment has arrived? And for those who relied on the PYD and YPG, what would you say now as the group seems on the brink of being dismantled?

Erdogan: The PKK/YPG’s hopes have been dashed. (Ousted regime leader Bashar al-) Assad had different expectations, but those hopes have not materialized. A new reality has emerged. Assad being in Russia at this moment is proof of how significant these developments are. From now on, the Syrian people will make decisions about their future. We will assist them in establishing a functioning state system. We will explore how our experiences can be transferred there and help Syria rebuild within the framework of a new social contract.

One of the most critical steps in rebuilding a state is drafting a constitution. We have initiated communication with prominent figures in the new Syrian administration, including Mr. (Mohammad) Jolani. As you know, we sent our National Intelligence Organization (MIT) chief and our foreign minister has been in dialogue with all relevant parties from the outset.

We will demonstrate that it is time to neutralize the existing terrorist organizations in Syria to ensure no threats emanate from our southern borders. Accepting such a risk is not an option for us. These terrorist organizations are doomed to isolation because their sole purpose is to serve their patrons. This was true yesterday, it is true today, and they will have no tomorrow. The end of the road is in sight for the terrorist organization.

They have inflicted suffering on the people of our region for years, tormenting Kurds, Turks, Arabs, Yazidis, and others. There is no place for terrorists in the future of this region. The shelf life of the PKK and its affiliates has expired. The security established in Syria will prevent the recruitment of militants by terrorist organizations. From now on, the path is clear for establishing peace and stability in our region.

Some political parties in our country made different statements about relations with Syria until recently. They probably cannot make those same claims now, as their hopes have been dashed as well. If Syria can establish a stable structure with this new formation, it will hold a strong position in the Islamic world. With a population exceeding 30 million, Syria cannot be overlooked.

Is Türkiye planning to address Israel’s expansion in southern Syria under international law, similar to its approach with Gaza?

Erdogan: Israel has made a habit of violating international law. They trampled on international law in Gaza, and the world remained silent. They invaded the sovereign territory of Lebanon and shed blood, yet again, the world remained silent. Now Syria is being subjected to Israel’s recklessness.

U.N. Security Council Resolution 242 from 1967 condemns Israel’s occupation of the Golan Heights and calls for their withdrawal. The international community needs to recall and enforce this resolution. Western countries have begun to voice opposition to Israel’s occupation, albeit weakly.

If the world had reacted strongly when Israel dropped its first bomb on civilians, they would not have found the courage to take these steps today. Just as we did not remain silent back then, we will not remain silent now against Israel’s attempts to occupy Syrian lands.

Israel must eventually learn that international law binds them too. We will continue to pressure Israel on every platform to act in accordance with the law. International mechanisms must be effectively utilized to prevent Israel from benefiting from the situation in Syria.

The United States and Western countries bear significant responsibility here. Israel’s occupation of Syrian territory must be unequivocally condemned. Before it is too late, Israel’s aggression, which continuously threatens peace and stability in our region, must be stopped.

If action is not taken, Israel’s aggression could eventually backfire on those who unconditionally support it. Those who ignored our warnings in the past now see the truth of our statements. To avoid regret tomorrow, they must heed our warnings and take the necessary steps today.

How do you evaluate Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati’s statement, “Lebanon experienced a crisis, but we learned to first trust in Allah and then in Türkiye,” following your recent meeting with him?

Erdogan: We were together with Prime Minister Mikati at the D-8 Summit, and I told him, “Your statement, ‘We first trust in Allah and then in Türkiye,’ has resonated very positively among our people.” His expression of trust in Türkiye is an acknowledgment of our efforts.

Türkiye has historically proven itself as a safe haven for its friends and brothers. Our warnings, measures, and actions are never based on hidden agendas. We speak and act with integrity. We never abandon those who trust us and walk with us, nor do we undermine them.

In Anatolian wisdom, this understanding is summarized as, “We love the created for the sake of the Creator.” This principle guides our path and goals. Division and discrimination find no place in our ethos. As Hz. Ali said, “Numbers mean nothing if hearts are not united.”

We aim to achieve that unity of hearts. Especially with countries and nations with whom we share historical and cultural ties, we make every effort to foster this unity.

I hope that by strengthening Türkiye-Lebanon relations, we can help Lebanon rise in the region in a short time. However, we must first address the issue of Israeli aggression. Israel must pay the price for its oppression and bombings.

In the ongoing Syrian revolution since Dec. 8, Türkiye’s stance on Syria’s territorial integrity appears to be gaining support. Did you face any objections during recent diplomatic discussions?

Erdogan: To be honest, I did not observe any negative reactions. Every regional and global crisis or development increases our diplomatic engagement. Our discussions could represent a significant turning point for Syria’s future, peace processes, and international cooperation.

In our diplomatic meetings in Syria, I explained to the leaders that Türkiye is committed to preserving Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Maintaining Syria’s territorial unity first requires combating terrorist organizations. Some still use Daesh as an excuse to support the PKK and its affiliates, a mindset that recently brought Syria to the brink of division. From the beginning, we have fought against both Daesh and the PKK, and we continue to do so.

In Western countries, Daesh cannot organize marches on streets and squares, nor should the PKK and its affiliates. Combating terrorist structures must extend from public spaces to cultural domains.

We share a border of over 900 kilometers with Syria. Along this border, we have taken substantial steps, such as building walls and implementing strict controls. With the establishment of the new administration, we aim to elevate Türkiye-Syria relations to a much better position.

You might have noticed this: markets in Aleppo have suddenly become lively again. When I visited Aleppo before the war during Assad’s time, I observed that the covered bazaar there was bustling, much like our Grand Bazaar. It was a place rich in history and commerce. Now, that activity has returned. I believe this movement will bring prosperity to the area.

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump recently praised you, calling you “a very smart man, strong, and tough,” while stating, “Türkiye holds the key to what will happen in Syria” and expressing comfort with Türkiye’s backing of advancing forces. What are your thoughts on these remarks?

Erdogan: President Trump’s words summarize his perspective and that of his incoming administration regarding Türkiye. Everyone, except for some of our domestic opposition, recognizes Türkiye’s strength and influence. In truth, even they are aware of certain realities, but they are not accustomed to speaking the truth, which is why they distort it.

Türkiye’s growing influence in diplomacy is being acknowledged by international think tanks and media outlets alike. We are also fully aware of our power and significance. Our mission is to serve our nation in a manner befitting its greatness. As I have said before, Türkiye is bigger than just Türkiye.

We aim to protect our land, develop our country, and take steps toward the future while staying rooted in our heritage. Alongside this, we shoulder the responsibility of standing by our friends and brothers. For instance, we have reopened our embassy in Damascus. Just observe the emotions of our Syrian brothers when they see our name there. The phrase “Turk is the expected one” is not just a random saying. Türkiye’s moral boundaries extend far beyond its physical borders.

Everywhere we go, in every country and region we set foot in, we witness this. President Trump is essentially acknowledging the power and influence of our country. What can one say to such an accurate observation? His assessments are correct.

We truly have no issues between us. Since his election, we have held discussions. President Trump is a pragmatic politician who envisions changing policies that burden his country and its allies. After his inauguration, we will undoubtedly extend our congratulations and begin addressing the matters on our agenda in a sincere manner.

Since Syria’s civil war began in 2011, Türkiye has consistently emphasized Syria’s territorial integrity and unity. Now, with a new chapter unfolding, how would you define Türkiye’s policy framework for Syria moving forward?

Erdogan: The Syrian people, who have suffered under Assad’s oppression for years, are now very close to restoring their unity and brotherhood. In the coming period, we do not expect any power to continue collaborating with terrorist organizations. The remnants of groups like Daesh and PKK-YPG in other parts of the country will be eliminated as soon as possible.

Just as we have done in the past, we will continue to do everything we can to build a Syria free of terrorism and governed by its own people. Once the region is cleared of terrorist organizations, steps to rebuild Syria will accelerate.

Another critical issue is ensuring that Syria’s resources are used for the well-being and prosperity of its people. Until now, these resources have been diverted to terrorist organizations and other groups operating in the region. The Syrian revolution has closed those taps. Now, the country can channel all its energy toward rebuilding.

Türkiye will continue to support Syria’s reconstruction and the restoration of its institutions. We are also working to encourage the international community to contribute. With the return of Syrian refugees to their homeland, Syria will regain its wealth, focus on production, and achieve development.

As Syria’s state institutions are restored and reconstruction begins, what priority sectors will Türkiye focus on? What economic contributions will Türkiye make, and what steps do you expect from international actors to ensure Syria’s territorial integrity?

Erdogan: Years of conflict and war have destroyed cities and the country’s infrastructure. Rebuilding urban centers is crucial to healing these wounds. To ensure the voluntary return of Syrian refugees and help them establish sustainable lives, addressing the housing issue is essential.

New homes, job opportunities, production facilities, energy plants, and facilities for agriculture and livestock must be established quickly. Syria’s economy is in ruins, and lifting sanctions and restrictions imposed due to the Assad regime would help the country recover.

Is the international community providing sufficient support for Türkiye’s humanitarian efforts in Idlib?

Erdogan: Another priority is Syria’s reintegration into the international community. It is equally vital to draft an inclusive constitution and build a political system that lays the foundation for Syria’s future. Everyone must remember that it is the Syrian people who will decide their country’s destiny.

On the matter of humanitarian aid, the support provided is insufficient. The expected level of assistance has not yet been reached. As Türkiye, we have contributed significantly to Syria in terms of humanitarian aid, both during this new period and in the past. We will continue these efforts.

The new administration has many pressing needs, and we will not abandon them in addressing these challenges. In particular, they must not be left alone in their fight against Daesh and PKK/YPG. Whatever is necessary, we will do it.

Soon, our Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan will visit Syria. Together with the new administration, they will work on this reconstruction effort.