Turkey Slams Israeli Strikes on Syria, Warns Against Normalizing Aggression

Turkey's defense ministry has strongly condemned Israeli airstrikes in northern Syria, stating that the attacks target the country's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and unity. The remarks came during a press conference on Thursday, where ministry spokesperson Rear Admiral Zeki Akturk addressed the escalating situation.

Akturk noted that Israel continues its military activities in southern Lebanon despite a framework agreement, and has now expanded operations into Syria. He warned that allowing such interventions to be perceived as normal or acceptable would set a dangerous precedent for the region.

The Israeli strikes hit the Abu Duhur base early Tuesday, causing damage but no reported casualties. Israel's prime minister's office claimed the attack was necessary because Syria was on the verge of breaching an agreed security status quo by permitting Turkish troops to deploy at the base.

Syrian officials have said a Turkish delegation visited the base before the strike to review rehabilitation work. Turkey's defense ministry denied that any military delegation had been present and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Syria's military rebuilding efforts.

Ankara emphasized that regional security must be based on international law and respect for sovereignty, not unilateral force. The ministry called on the international community to take concrete measures against actions that threaten regional peace and stability, stressing that Turkey's priority is preventing further conflict and establishing lasting security.