Türkiye, US discuss reducing tensions in Syria

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, in a phone conversation with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday, stressed that Türkiye opposes developments that would increase instability in the region and will never allow terrorist activities targeting Syrian civilians. 

According to information obtained from the Turkish Foreign Ministry, Fidan and Blinken discussed the recent developments in Syria during their phone conversation.

Fidan reiterated Türkiye's stance against any action that could escalate instability in the region and underscored the importance of reducing tensions in Syria.

He emphasized that achieving peace and stability in Syria requires concluding the political process between the regime and the opposition.

The minister also made it clear that Türkiye would not permit any terrorist activities against either its territory or Syrian civilians.

Regarding the situation in Lebanon, Fidan stressed the importance of Israel fulfilling its commitments to ensure a permanent cease-fire.

He also called for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, along with the delivery of humanitarian aid to the region.

The conversation also covered topics related to Ukraine and the South Caucasus.  

Meanwhile, Fidan and his Saudi counterpart, Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud, held a phone conversation on Dec. 1 to discuss the latest developments in Syria, according to sources from the Turkish Foreign Ministry.

The talks coincided with significant advances by the Syrian National Army (SNA) in its "Operation Dawn of Freedom," targeting the PKK/YPG terrorist group in northern Syria.

On Dec. 1, the SNA announced full control over the central districts of Tal Rifaat, located 18 kilometers from the Turkish border, ending...