Turkey urges SDF to disarm and incorporate into the Syrian government structure
In a series of events, tensions between Turkey and Greece have escalated following an incident involving an unarmed Turkish aircraft. According to the Turkish Defense Ministry, the incident contradicts the spirit of the 2023 Athens Declaration signed between the two countries.
The incident occurred when the Turkish P-72 Maritime Patrol Aircraft, conducting a NATO-sanctioned mission, was reported to have entered the Athens Flight Information Region (FIR) between Rhodes and Meis islands. Greek authorities responded by scrambling two armed F-16 aircraft from Crete/Kastellion airfield, conducting an interception.
The Turkish Defense Ministry, under the leadership of Minister Yaşar Güler, has condemned Greece's actions and characterized them as a "new example of Greece’s recent escalatory steps." The ministry has also pledged to continue monitoring the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) integration process closely, expressing concerns over the SDF's failure to disarm and integrate into the Syrian state, which threatens Syria's unity and integrity, as well as Turkey's national security.
Meanwhile, Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk, Defense Ministry's press and public relations advisor, has expressed strong opposition to Israel's ongoing military operations in Gaza. He has accused Israel of committing the crime of genocide, with babies, children, women, and elderly people being killed or dying from hunger in Gaza. Akturk has urged increased international pressure and sanctions to establish a ceasefire and pursue a two-state solution.
In a statement, Akturk also criticised the international community's inability to stop the killings in Gaza, expressing his dismay at the United Nations' inadequacy in addressing the crisis. He has further condemned Israel's insidious plans aimed at forcing Palestinians from Gaza for deportation.
The Turkish Defense Ministry has reaffirmed its commitment to a constructive approach in favor of reconciliation, contributing to both Turkey's own security and Syria's stability. NATO authorities were informed about the incident through standard NATO reporting procedures, and the Turkish Air Force Quick Reaction Alert aircraft responded to ensure necessary separation between aircraft.
As the situation continues to unfold, both Turkey and Greece remain steadfast in their positions, with tensions running high and the potential for further escalation a concern for regional stability.
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