US media: “U.S. and Israel approve Turkey’s role in Syria under 2 conditions”
Bloomberg reports that Turkey seeks to increase its role in Syria’s future following the collapse of the Ba’ath regime and regional changes. However, this move has been conditionally approved by both the U.S. and Israel.
Turkey aims to play a significant role in Syria’s reconstruction, which could also boost its geopolitical influence and bring significant financial benefits. Turkish officials have begun coordinating with Syrian authorities on reconstruction, and Turkish Airlines resumed flights to Damascus after 13 years.
The U.S. and Israel have agreed to Turkey’s larger role under two conditions: Turkey must not target Kurdish forces in Syria and must soften its criticism of Israeli actions in Gaza and the West Bank.
Turkey has called for the disbandment of the PKK’s Syrian branch (YPG) and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), as well as the removal of PKK members from the region. The U.S. has rejected these demands, though the atmosphere in Washington appears to be shifting.
President Trump on the other hand, views Erdoğan as a key player in Syria’s future and recognizes Turkey’s importance in preventing an ISIS resurgence. Turkey also seeks to weaken Kurdish control over Syria’s oil fields, a vital resource for the country’s reconstruction.
