Turkey Expands Military Presence in Northern Syria with Aleppo Base Construction

The Turkish Army is constructing a military base at Menagh Air Base in Aleppo, signaling an increase in military influence in the region. Reports reveal significant mobilization of forces. While Turkey denies plans for additional bases, indications of military training for Syrian forces persist. Tensions with Israel arise amid Erdoğan’s statements against external interference in Syria.

The Turkish Army has initiated construction of a military base at Menagh Air Base in northern Aleppo, previously under Russian control until last year. According to reports from the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a significant mobilization of Turkish forces has occurred, marked by the deployment of mine engineering teams in Mar’anaz, Al-Alqamiyah, and Menagh. This move is perceived as an effort by Ankara to bolster its military influence in Syria.

In a recent development, the Turkish government refuted claims of establishing two additional military bases. Instead, a senior Turkish official stated that Turkey is pursuing a roadmap to address the security and defense needs of Syria’s newly appointed regime under Ahmad al-Shara’a. Such measures aim to enhance the Syrian army’s capabilities and implement specific actions in this direction.

A report by Bloomberg further corroborated Turkey’s potential establishment of military bases in Syria, alongside provisions for weapons supplies and military training for the Syrian Armed Forces. Moreover, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has echoed sentiments urging foreign countries to refrain from interference in Syria, singling out Israel for its military actions in the region.

Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs responded to Erdoğan’s remarks by labeling Turkey itself as an aggressive imperialist entity in Syria and other regions, advising the Turkish president to avoid threats. A Turkish military presence in Syria poses a tangible risk to Israel, echoing Erdoğan’s past threats regarding Israeli actions in the region.

Turkey exhibits intentions of gradually annexing northern Syrian territory, with military sources suggesting in previous years that the Turkish Army planned to establish bases in Aleppo province near critical crossings to Idlib. This strategy underscores Turkey’s long-standing aspirations in the geopolitical landscape of northern Syria.

In summary, Turkey’s construction of a military base in Aleppo represents a significant escalation of its military presence in northern Syria, reflecting Ankara’s intent to expand its influence in the region. Despite denials from Turkish officials regarding the establishment of additional bases, evidence suggests ongoing military activity and potential plans for training Syrian forces. The situation remains complex, particularly with the involved reactions from Israel and the implications for regional stability.

Original Source: www.jewishpress.com