‘Türkiye Slams Israeli Strikes on Syria, Citing Violations of International Law and 1974 Disengagement Agreement’

Ankara, Turkey – The Government of Türkiye has strongly condemned the recent Israeli military strikes targeting Syria’s Quneitra and Daraa provinces, denouncing the actions as egregious violations of the war-torn nation’s sovereignty, international law, and a landmark 1974 agreement regulating relations between Israeli and Syrian forces in the Golan Heights.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry issued a statement expressing “deep concern” over the escalating violence and reiterating Türkiye’s unwavering commitment to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations. The statement went on to emphasize Türkiye’s expectation that all parties involved in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will exercise utmost restraint and adhere to the norms of international law.

In its statement, the Turkish Foreign Ministry specifically referenced the 1974 Disengagement Agreement between Israeli and Syrian forces, which was signed with the goal of establishing a lasting ceasefire and preventing future conflicts in the region. The agreement, also known as the Separation of Forces Agreement, established demilitarized zones in the Golan Heights and prohibited both parties from launching attacks across their mutual border.

The recent Israeli strikes on Syrian territory have raised concerns among regional stakeholders about the potential for escalating tensions and destabilizing the broader Middle East. The Syrian government, in a statement, accused Israel of ” flagrant aggression” and emphasized the importance of respecting Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Türkiye’s condemnation of Israeli military actions comes at a time of heightened tensions between the two nations. Relations between the two have been strained in recent years due to a range of issues, including disagreements over Syria’s civil war, territorial disputes in the Eastern Mediterranean, and competing bids for regional influence.

Türkiye’s stance on this issue reflects its long-standing commitment to protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its fellow nations in the Middle East and upholding the principles of international law. In light of ongoing Israeli military operations in Syria, many are watching with interest to see whether Ankara’s strong condemnation will serve as a catalyst for diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting regional stability.

In a statement to the press, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu expressed his nation’s deep disappointment with the Israeli government’s continued disregard for international law and its repeated military forays onto Syrian territory. He underscored the need for an urgent cessation of hostilities and called on the international community to take concrete steps towards promoting regional peace and security.