Turkish Defense Ministry Vows to Continue Anti-Terrorism Measures, Cooperates with New Syrian Administration
The Turkish Ministry of Defense has declared that the country’s armed forces will continue to take preventative and destructive measures against terrorist organizations, while also pledging cooperation with Syria‘s new administration in the fight against terrorism.
During a weekly press briefing held on Thursday at the ministry, Rear Admiral Zeki Aktürk, advisor for press and public relations, stated that Turkish armed forces are continuously conducting operations against various threats, especially those posed by terrorist groups such as the PKK/PYD-YPG, Daesh, and FETO.
Aktürk reported that 41 terrorists were neutralized last week, bringing the total to 2,959 since January 1, 2023. Among them, 1,438 were neutralized in northern Iraq, and 1,521 in northern Syria. Additionally, three PKK terrorists surrendered to border posts last week after fleeing their hideouts.
Condemning Israel‘s decision to expand illegal settlements on the Golan Heights, Aktürk criticized Israel for disregarding international law in Gaza and the West Bank, as well as its continued occupation of Syrian territory. He called for an immediate ceasefire and regional stability, emphasizing that Israel’s killing of women and children in Gaza must not be overlooked.
Regarding the situation in Syria, Aktürk stressed that Turkey supports Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and prioritizes the elimination of the PKK/YPG threat. He reiterated that Turkey will cooperate with the new Syrian administration in combating terrorism and expressed confidence that the Syrian National Army would liberate territories occupied by PKK/YPG terrorists.
Denouncing recent statements from the U.S. Department of State referring to an alleged ceasefire agreement between Turkey and the PKK/YPG, Aktürk dismissed such claims, stating, "We do not negotiate with any terrorist organization."
Turkish forces will continue their anti-terrorism measures until the PKK/YPG is disarmed and its foreign fighters leave Syria.
