Ankara: Trkiye has successfully destroyed approximately 121 kilometers of tunnels in northern Syria near the Turkish border, as part of an ongoing military campaign, the National Defense Ministry announced.
According to Anadolu Agency, at a briefing in Ankara, spokesman Zeki Akturk highlighted the ongoing efforts to secure lasting peace, security, and stability in Trkiye's operation zones in Syria. He also emphasized the goal of facilitating the safe return of Syrians to secure environments. Akturk detailed that since the tunnel destruction operations began on January 8, 2025, around 66 kilometers of tunnels have been dismantled in the Tel Rifat area and 55 kilometers in the Manbij area. These tunnels are believed to have been used by terrorist groups in the region.
Akturk noted that efforts to detect and destroy mines, improvised explosive devices, and tunnels in the region are continuing without interruption. Turkish forces are stationed in northern Syrian border regions to prevent the establishment of a terrorist corridor that could threaten Trkiye's security and the safety of local residents.
In addition to the tunnel destruction, Akturk reported that 1,465 individuals have been apprehended attempting to cross the border illegally since the start of the year, with 23,709 others being prevented from crossing.
On other issues, the ministry addressed discussions regarding a de-confliction mechanism between Trkiye and Israel in Syria. Ministry sources clarified that this mechanism does not indicate any normalization of relations. The structure is intended to prevent direct conflict and ensure military activities in Syria are conducted safely to avoid unwanted incidents.
The ministry also condemned Greece's recent Marine Spatial Planning announcement concerning the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea, labeling it illegal and contrary to international law. It stressed that a fair distribution of maritime zones can only be achieved through mutual dialogue and goodwill, rejecting Greece's actions that overlook ongoing disputes.