Erdogan expresses support for anti-regime advances in Syria

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has voiced support for the progress of anti-regime forces in Syria, highlighting their recent advances in Idlib, Hama, and Homs, with their focus now set on Damascus. Speaking after Friday prayers, Erdogan emphasized Türkiye’s close monitoring of the developments.

“Our hope is that this progress in Syria continues smoothly and without incident,” he stated, acknowledging the strategic importance of the opposition’s gains.

Erdogan also revisited Türkiye’s past outreach to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, expressing regret over the lack of a constructive response to calls for dialogue.

We had invited Assad to meet and collaboratively shape Syria’s future, but unfortunately, he did not respond positively.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan

Türkiye’s commitment to stability

While commending the opposition’s advancements, Erdogan underscored Türkiye’s broader goal of achieving peace and stability in the region, reiterating his government’s commitment to monitoring and supporting developments that align with this vision.

Humanitarian and regional concerns

In addition to Syria, Erdogan addressed ongoing crises in Lebanon and the Golan Heights, pledging Türkiye’s continued humanitarian support.

“While the world remains silent, Türkiye will continue its efforts to provide aid to those in need,” Erdogan affirmed, citing recent requests for assistance from Lebanon and Egypt.

Focus on lasting peace, accountability

Erdogan highlighted Türkiye’s efforts to pursue lasting ceasefires through collaboration with the United Nations, mentioning a recent conversation with U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

On the situation in Gaza, Erdogan condemned Israeli actions as “atrocities and genocidal acts,” calling for greater international accountability.

As Türkiye, we will continue to do our part, and we urge the world to demand justice.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan