Turkey Urges Calm Amid Armed Clashes in Idlib and Northwestern Syria.

Ankara: The Turkish Foreign Ministry has called for calm in Idlib and surrounding areas in northwestern Syria, emphasizing its significance as a priority for Turkey amidst recent developments. According to National Iraqi News Agency, Turkish Foreign Ministry spokesperson Oncu Keçali stated via the X platform that the recent attacks in Idlib have significantly undermined the spirit and implementation of the Astana agreements, resulting in heavy civilian casualties. Keçali highlighted the necessity of halting these attacks, asserting that maintaining peace in Idlib and neighboring regions, particularly those bordering Turkey, is crucial. Keçali noted that since 2017, multiple agreements have been established concerning the de-escalation zone in Idlib, and Turkey remains committed to fulfilling the obligations of these agreements. The recent clashes have escalated tensions in the area, and Turkey aims to prevent further instability and protect civilians. The spokesperson expressed concern over increased atta cks by armed groups against civilians and Turkey in Tal Rifaat and Manbij, exploiting the current unstable environment. He criticized the failure to implement previous agreements to eliminate terrorist presences in these areas. Keçali reiterated Turkey's dedication to monitoring developments in line with its commitment to Syria's unity and territorial integrity, with counter-terrorism as a priority. The armed opposition factions and Syrian regime forces began clashing in the western countryside of Aleppo last Wednesday. Over the past three days, opposition factions have gained control of 70 areas in Aleppo and Idlib provinces. On Friday, opposition forces entered Aleppo after breaching Syrian regime defenses, and later captured Saraqib, a strategically significant city in Idlib province, following two days of intense fighting.