Turkey to establish military bases in Syria

Turkey as contemplating the establishment of military bases in Syria and providing training to its newly formed government as it aims to enhance its influence in the region following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad. Turkish officials, who wish to remain anonymous due to the sensitive nature of the discussions, indicate that Turkey is currently evaluating potential locations for these bases in Syria, where it has alTurkeyready deployed thousands of troops. The proposed plan includes supplying arms and military training to the Syrian armed forces. This development underscores the shifting dynamics in the Middle East, particularly in the context of Israel's conflict with Iran-backed militias and the fall of Assad. In the aftermath of the uprising against Assad late last year, Turkey, along with Saudi Arabia and Qatar, has emerged as a significant power player in the war-torn country, seeking to strengthen relationships with the new President Ahmed Al-Sharaa. They are quickly filling the power vacuum left by Iran and Russia, whose influence has diminished since Assad’s departure. Al-Sharaa recently visited Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman in Riyadh, marking his first international trip since taking office, and subsequently met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. Erdogan noted that their discussions revolved around Syria’s security and economic stability, stating, “We have no other option but to unite our efforts for the prosperity of our nations and the region.” While Turkish officials did not confirm whether Al-Sharaa formally requested military aid, Turkey's defense ministry declined to comment on the matter. According to state-run Anadolu Agency, talks regarding military cooperation took place last week, but it is premature to address the establishment of bases. A collaborative roadmap is expected to be developed in partnership with the Syrian government to support its military. Turkey's military presence is expanding as Erdogan aims to tackle US-backed Kurdish forces in northeastern Syria, which he views as a threat due to their connections with the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) in Turkey. Turkish-backed Syrian rebels, who previously fought against Kurdish forces, have now integrated into the central government ranks under Ankara's directives. Erdogan emphasized the need for Syria to take necessary actions against all forms of terrorism, referencing both the Islamic State (Daesh) and the PKK.