In a controversial statement, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan appeared to praise the progress of jihadist group Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) toward the Syrian capital, Damascus. HTS has been officially designated as a terrorist organization by both Turkey and the United Nations.
Erdoğan’s Comments Spark Debate
During remarks about the recent escalation in Syria, Erdoğan addressed the attacks by HTS and other jihadist factions that have led to the capture of several Syrian cities.
“Idlib, Hama, Homs, and of course the target is Damascus. The opposition’s march continues. Our hope is that this march in Syria continues without any accidents or troubles,” Erdoğan said.
He continued:
“Idlib is already secure. Hama and Homs are also in the hands of the opposition. There is also progress toward Damascus. However, the ongoing troubled process in the region is unfortunately not as we desire. Our heart wishes for these troubles to end.”
These remarks have sparked widespread criticism and raised questions about Turkey’s role in the Syrian conflict, particularly its stance toward armed jihadist groups.
Footage Raises Concerns
Further complicating the issue, local reports and video evidence suggest that some members of these jihadist factions are wearing Turkish military uniforms and carrying Turkish flags. This has fueled speculation about Turkey’s direct or indirect support for these groups, despite its official stance against terrorism.
The footage has prompted questions from international observers and critics within Turkey, who argue that such support, whether intentional or not, could undermine regional stability and contradict Turkey’s counterterrorism policies.
A Contradictory Approach?
Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham, which emerged from the now-defunct Al-Nusra Front, has long been classified as a terrorist organization by Turkey. However, Erdoğan’s apparent endorsement of HTS’s military advances raises concerns about whether Turkey is prioritizing its geopolitical goals over its counterterrorism commitments.
This perceived contradiction has put Erdoğan under scrutiny both domestically and internationally, with many asking whether Ankara’s actions align with its public rhetoric on combating terrorism.
What’s Next for Syria?
As the Syrian conflict continues, the situation remains highly volatile. The apparent support—or at least tolerance—for HTS’s actions in Syria could complicate peace efforts and lead to further tensions between Turkey, the Syrian government, and international stakeholders.
Observers warn that any form of backing for terrorist organizations, even if unintended, could have long-lasting repercussions on Turkey’s reputation and its role in the region. For now, Erdoğan’s statements remain the subject of intense debate and raise pressing questions about Turkey’s true intentions in the Syrian theater.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
