Iran Press/America: Sinan Ciddi, a senior analyst at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD) warned that Erdogan’s approach could destabilize the region further, describing it as “playing with fire.” He argued that the newly inaugurated U.S. administration under Donald Trump should take note of Erdogan’s maneuvers, as granting Turkey unchecked influence in post-Assad Syria risks prolonged instability.
The report highlighted Erdogan’s backing of groups like Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) and his focus on dismantling Kurdish influence in Syria, particularly the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and the Democratic Union Party (PYD). Analysts view this as part of Erdogan’s strategy to distract the Turkish populace from ongoing economic challenges by portraying a hardline stance against terrorism.
With an estimated 16,000 to 18,000 Turkish troops stationed near Kobani, Erdogan’s objective appears to involve establishing a buffer zone, relocating Syrian refugees from Turkey, and consolidating political leverage.
Sinan Ciddi grouped key considerations for Syria’s future into three categories:
The jihadist origins and influence of HTS, including links to Al-Qaeda and ISIS.
The precarious situation of Kurdish communities from the perspectives of Turkey and Western powers.
The broader impact on Syria’s and the region’s stability.
Erdogan’s aggressive tactics, Ciddi concluded, pose significant risks not only for Syria but for the entire region. Ignoring these risks could lead to enduring consequences that may prove irreversible.
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