Ankara: The Turkish president on Thursday accused Israel of using Syria's Druze population as a pretext for aggression, vowing that Trkiye would never allow the fragmentation of Syria. 'We did not consent to fragmentation of Syria yesterday, and we will certainly not consent to it today or tomorrow,' Recep Tayyip Erdogan said after a Cabinet meeting in the Turkish capital, Ankara.

According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan stated that Israel has been using the Druze community as an excuse to extend its influence into neighboring Syria over the past two days. He warned that those relying on Israel would sooner or later realize they have made a significant miscalculation, describing Israel as a "lawless, rule-breaking, unprincipled, arrogant, spoiled, and bloodthirsty terrorist state."

Erdogan emphasized that a stable Syria would lead to stability for all neighboring countries, cautioning that everyone would bear the burden of instability otherwise. He further remarked that those seeking security through oppression and massacres should remember that they are temporary, while Trkiye remains a steadfast presence in the region.

The Turkish president assured that Trkiye is closely monitoring developments in Syria and maintaining communication with relevant parties. Trkiye's fundamental policy, he stated, is to preserve Syria's territorial integrity, national unity, unitary structure, and multicultural identity.

Erdogan highlighted Trkiye's commitment to an honorable foreign policy, peace efforts, and diplomatic engagements, asserting that the country stands on the side of peace without harboring ill will, envy, or hostility. He concluded by affirming that Trkiye does not infringe on anyone's rights, laws, or sovereignty, with peace being its ultimate goal.