Erdogan Reaffirms Backing for al Sharaa, Stresses Commitment to Syria’s Unity

Ankara, The Gulf Observer: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has reiterated Türkiye’s firm support for Syria’s transitional leadership under President Ahmed al Sharaa, while rejecting any attempt to fragment the war-torn country. He also called for stronger international awareness of Israel’s role in undermining regional stability.

Speaking to reporters on his return flight from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) on Sunday, President Erdoğan emphasized Ankara’s commitment to backing the current Syrian leadership. “We will not leave al Sharaa alone,” he said. “At a time when even unlikely actors are coming together on Syria, it’s crucial to explain to the world that Israel is disrupting efforts to restore stability.”

Erdoğan reaffirmed Türkiye’s support for the transitional setup led by President al Sharaa, who assumed power following the fall of the Assad regime in December 2024. He described the recovery of Syria as beneficial for Türkiye and the wider region.

Commenting on the recent ceasefire in the Syrian city of Sweida—scene of clashes between Bedouin tribes and the Druze minority, followed by an Israeli intervention—Erdoğan said the Syrian leadership has demonstrated resilience and refused to compromise. “Israel does not want stability in the region. It believes that a unified Syria would not be in its interest and continues with such provocations,” he added.

On the Cyprus issue, Erdoğan dismissed any notion of engagement with the Republic of Cyprus, reiterating Türkiye’s non-recognition of the southern part of the island. “Just as they do not recognise TRNC as a state, we don’t recognise Southern Cyprus as a state,” he stated. He stressed that the resolution of the Cyprus dispute lies in a two-state solution and affirmed: “There will be no compromise on this position.”

Touching on defense matters, Erdoğan noted progress in negotiations with the United Kingdom and Germany regarding the sale of Eurofighter jets to Türkiye, describing their stance as “positive.”

He also urged the European Union to act without delay in reviving Türkiye’s accession process, stating that the current geopolitical climate demands proactive engagement.

Regarding the ongoing war in Gaza, Erdoğan condemned Israel’s actions, describing them as genocidal. “Israel is lashing out like a crazed monster, and will destroy itself in this fury,” he said. He expressed confidence in the resilience of the people of Gaza, declaring, “They will not surrender.”

The Turkish leader’s remarks reflect Ankara’s assertive regional stance and highlight Türkiye’s growing involvement in key Middle Eastern and Mediterranean issues.