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Intelligence chief Kalin highlights Türkiye’s concerns on Gaza, Syria at MSC 2025

Photo shows Turkish intel chief Ibrahim Kalin. Turkish Director of the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) Ibrahim Kalin. (AA Photo)
By Newsroom
Feb 16, 2025 9:21 AM

Ibrahim Kalin, head of Türkiye’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT), emphasized Türkiye’s concerns regarding the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Syria during the 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC 2025).

Kalin underscored the fragile nature of the cease-fire in Gaza, calling for an immediate halt to Israeli attacks, the unimpeded delivery of humanitarian aid, and a permanent cease-fire.

Türkiye’s perspective on global, regional crises

Attending MSC 2025 under the “multipolarity” theme, Kalin engaged in bilateral meetings and intelligence-focused sessions, sharing Türkiye’s experiences and perspectives on global security.

He highlighted the evolving nature of international alliances and stressed Türkiye’s proactive and 360-degree preventive intelligence diplomacy.

Discussions at the conference included the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, which has persisted for over a year. Kalin reiterated Türkiye’s position on the Gaza conflict, emphasizing that Israeli aggression must end, humanitarian assistance must flow freely, and efforts must be made to ensure a lasting ceasefire.

Civilians ride an animal pulled cart past the rubble of a destroyed building
Civilians ride an animal-pulled cart past the rubble of a destroyed building in al-Mughraqa in the central Gaza Strip, on Feb. 13, 2025. (AFP Photo)

Kalin addresses Syria, regional security

Developments in Syria were also a key issue on Kalin’s agenda. He stressed the importance of a transition process for Syria and called for the removal of economic sanctions to facilitate the country’s recovery.

Additionally, Kalin emphasized Türkiye’s stance against the presence of terrorist organizations such as Daesh and the PKK/YPG in the region, underscoring the need for strict measures to prevent their activities.

Druze residents of the village of Majdal Shams
Druze residents of the village of Majdal Shams in the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights wave Syrian flags as they take part in a rally on Feb. 14, 2025, to protest against the 1981 annexation law of the strategic plateau which Israel captured from Syria during the 1967 Arab-Israeli war. (AFP Photo)

Türkiye’s position on the Russia-Ukraine war

Kalin highlighted the geopolitical challenges posed by the Russia-Ukraine war, noting that Türkiye, due to its geographical position, is directly affected by developments in both the Middle East and Eastern Europe.

He reiterated Türkiye’s call for diplomatic negotiations to resolve the ongoing war and stressed that stability in the Black Sea is crucial not only for Türkiye, but for global security.

American Humvee fitted with Soviet era Grad launcher
Ukrainian soldiers of the 111th brigade operate an American Humvee fitted with Soviet-era Grad launcher in the direction of Toretsk, Ukraine on Jan.23, 2025. (AA Photo)

Intelligence, security cooperation in multipolar world

Reflecting on the transition from a “bipolar” to a “multipolar” world order, Kalin underlined MIT’s ongoing efforts in counterterrorism, illegal migration, and cybersecurity.

He stated Türkiye remains committed to addressing these security challenges in collaboration with international partners.

Last Updated:  Feb 16, 2025 9:21 AM