Ankara: Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that the resurgence of conflict in Syria is largely due to unresolved issues that have persisted for over 13 years. During a joint press conference with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, who is currently visiting Trkiye, Fidan emphasized that these developments are not merely the result of external interventions but are deeply rooted issues that the Syrian regime has failed to address. According to Anadolu Agency, Fidan criticized the Syrian regime for not heeding the legitimate demands of the opposition and neglecting to engage in a meaningful political process. He asserted that the recent escalation in conflict underscores the necessity for the Syrian government to reconcile with its citizens and the opposition. Fidan reiterated Ankara's willingness to contribute towards achieving this reconciliation and expressed Trkiye's desire to prevent further escalation in the ongoing civil war, which has plagued Syria since 2011. Fidan highlighted the Astana Pro cess's role in reducing intense military confrontations, aiming to foster political dialogue between the regime and opposition groups. He assured that Trkiye will persist in coordinating with Iran, a key player in the Astana Process, to protect Syria's territorial integrity and unity. The Astana talks, initiated in 2017 by Trkiye, Russia, and Iran, seek to find a resolution to the Syrian civil war. The recent outbreak of clashes on November 27 between Assad regime forces and anti-regime groups in Aleppo has marked a new wave of violence after a period of calm. On the topic of Trkiye-Iran relations, Fidan pointed out ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral ties through new agreements and mechanisms that will bolster the institutional framework of their relations. He emphasized the importance of transforming border regions into trade hubs and improving infrastructure to facilitate this goal. In terms of counter-terrorism efforts, Fidan stressed the necessity for Trkiye and Iran to collaborate against terrorism t o improve trade and welfare. He highlighted the shared commitment to eradicating terrorist organizations such as the PKK, YPG, and PJAK from the region, urging for a united approach against these threats. The PKK is recognized as a terrorist group by Trkiye, the US, and the EU, responsible for the deaths of over 40,000 people during its 40-year campaign. Addressing the situation in Lebanon, Fidan welcomed the recent cease-fire despite it being delayed, and stressed the importance of pressuring Israel to ensure the cease-fire's permanence. He linked regional peace to resolving the Palestinian conflict and criticized the Israeli government's obstruction of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Fidan welcomed the International Criminal Court's decision to issue arrest warrants for Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, for alleged war crimes in Gaza, and vowed to continue efforts for accountability in international courts. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in nearly 44,300 deaths since Octo ber 2023, with Israel also facing genocide charges at the International Court of Justice.