New york: Trkiye's UN envoy Ahmet Yildiz on Thursday stated that Israeli policies are contributing to instability in Syria and pose a threat to regional security. He urged the international community to lift remaining sanctions and support Syria's sovereignty during a UN Security Council meeting.
According to Anadolu Agency, Yildiz emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in Syria based on the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity. He highlighted the need to empower the Syrian administration, stressing that a centralized administration and a unified national army are essential to achieving peace.
Yildiz called for the removal of remaining sanctions to enable the Syrian administration to serve its citizens effectively. He pointed out that recent developments in Suwayda illustrate the destabilizing nature of Israeli policies in the region, warning against actions that threaten Syria's unity and regional stability.
Violence erupted in Suwayda in mid-July between Bedouin tribes and Druze factions, prompting government forces to intervene. Israel also intervened, bombing Damascus under the pretext of protecting the Druze minority. A truce brokered by the US was later announced.
Yildiz criticized the March 10 agreement between the Syrian government and the SDF, questioning the lack of credible steps from the SDF to reduce tensions. He urged for additional pressure on the SDF, which he accused of exploiting potential crises.
The Syrian presidency announced an agreement for the integration of SDF into state institutions on March 10, reaffirming the country's territorial unity. The SDF is dominated by the YPG, the Syrian branch of the PKK.
Yildiz reiterated Trkiye's commitment to engaging with the Syrian government and fostering international cooperation. The Syrian government has been focused on security efforts since the ouster of Bashar al-Assad last year, who fled to Russia after nearly 25 years in power. A transitional administration led by President Ahmad Al-Sharaa was formed in January.