The Turkish Ministry of National Defense confirmed on Thursday that no Turkish soldiers or military delegation were present at Syria's Abu al-Duhur Airbase prior to or during an Israeli airstrike, stating that the attack constitutes a violation of Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity while threatening regional stability.
اضافة اعلان
Denial of Troop Presence
In a statement, the Turkish ministry noted that "no Turkish military delegation was present at Abu al-Duhur Airbase prior to or during the Israeli attack," denying reports suggesting the potential presence of Turkish forces at the targeted site, according to the website of the Turkish Radio and Television Corporation (TRT).
The ministry added that "the Israeli attack on the base represents an act intended to undermine Syria's stability, security, unity, and infrastructure," emphasizing that attacks violating the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity are unacceptable.
Support for the Syrian Army
Ankara reaffirmed its continued support for Syria under the "one army" principle, including efforts to rebuild the country's military capabilities and infrastructure.
The ministry indicated that Turkey continues to work toward achieving peace and stability in Syria and the broader region, calling on Israel to cease reckless attacks and adhere to international law.
Targeting of the Base
The Turkish stance follows an Israeli airstrike on the Abu al-Duhur military base in Syria amid escalating regional tensions and increased Israeli military actions within Syrian territory.
On Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel would not tolerate a Turkish military footprint expanding southward, alleging that "Ankara intended to establish a presence at an airfield near Aleppo, Syria."
Earlier, Israeli warplanes launched eight airstrikes on Abu al-Duhur Military Airbase, causing material damage to the facility without resulting in casualties, according to Syrian state media.