Speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on the latest developments in the Middle East, Türkiye’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ahmet Yıldız, welcomed the United States’ decision on Syria and condemned Israel’s attacks.
Yıldız said the United States’ decision to remove Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism would accelerate Syria’s economic recovery and reconstruction. He said the decision would strengthen Syria’s position in the international community and noted that it would contribute to lasting security and stability.
Political and legal steps in Syria
Yıldız said Syria was moving toward stability despite the challenges it faces and welcomed the progress made by Syria’s People’s Assembly toward becoming a fully functioning legislative institution.
Yıldız highlighted the importance of recent developments in judicial proceedings related to transitional justice and accountability. He said maintaining momentum in these areas was necessary to increase public confidence in state institutions and advance an inclusive political process.
Yıldız also welcomed the recent visit to Syria by Rafael Grossi, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and expressed appreciation for the Syrian government’s cooperation with the agency.
Call on Israel to stop its attacks
Yıldız argued that Israel was disrupting the positive process toward stability through destabilizing actions and cited its recent airstrikes on the Abu al-Duhur air base as an example. Condemning attacks targeting Syria’s infrastructure and capabilities, Yıldız said Israel’s actions violated Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Yıldız called on Israel to reverse its violations in Syrian territory and end its attacks. He urged Israel to fully comply with the 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement and not further escalate tensions, reiterating the call.
Yıldız said the international community, particularly the UN Security Council, must use all available means to end Israel’s attacks on Syria and its occupation of Syrian territory, and called on the Council to assume its responsibilities.
Türkiye’s military cooperation with Syria
Yıldız also addressed Türkiye’s military cooperation with Syria, stating that Ankara’s activities in the country were carried out with the approval of the Syrian government. He said these activities were not directed against any third country and did not pose a threat to third countries.
Yıldız warned that obstructing Syria’s efforts to develop its security capabilities could create conditions conducive to terrorist organizations such as ISIS regaining strength.
Yıldız said Türkiye remained committed to the goals of stability, security and prosperity in its relations with the countries of the region, adding that these elements were of fundamental importance to Türkiye’s national, regional and international security.
