12.12.2025 12:30
As military activity in Syria has noticeably increased in recent days, a Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) convoy was also spotted in Afrin, Rasulayn, and Aleppo. While these images were interpreted as preparations for an operation, a statement was issued by the Ministry of National Defense. In the statement, it was said, "The activities reflected in the images are routine troop rotation activities. What should be primarily monitored here is not the mobility of the TSK, but rather the situation of the terrorist organization SDG and the activities of the Syrian Army."
At the press briefing held at the Ministry of National Defense, details were shared regarding the recent activities of the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK) in counter-terrorism, border security, and the defense industry.
The Ministry of National Defense stated that "the continuation of the activities of the SDG terrorist organization, instead of integrating into the Syrian army despite the March 10 Agreement, continues to harm the stability and security environment that is being attempted to be established in Syria."
"ROUTINE UNIT CHANGE"
Ministry sources also commented on the claim that operational preparations were being made based on images of TSK's routine activities in Syria, stating, "The activities reflected in the images are routine unit change activities. What should be primarily monitored is not the mobility of the TSK, but the situation of the SDG terrorist organization and the activities of the Syrian Army."
"SOME COUNTRIES ARE ENCOURAGING SDG"
The following was noted in the statements made by the Ministry;
Our stance on this issue was clearly expressed by our Minister during the budget discussions of our ministry held in the General Assembly yesterday. In addition, the continuation of the activities of the SDG terrorist organization, instead of integrating into the Syrian army despite the March 10 Agreement, continues to harm the stability and security environment that is being attempted to be established in Syria. It is observed that some countries are encouraging the SDG terrorist organization not to integrate and not to lay down arms through their actions and statements.
We have previously stated that we expect the SDG terrorist organization to integrate into the Syrian army not as a unit, but as individuals within the framework of the March 10 Agreement. The efforts of the SDG terrorist organization to buy time are also in vain. There will be no result other than integration.
US AMBASSADOR BARACK'S STATEMENTS ON S400 AND F-35
Our efforts to strengthen our country's air defense capabilities with domestic and national systems are continuing as planned. There is no new development regarding the S-400 Air Defense System that has been brought up in recent days.
Diplomatic contacts and discussions with our American counterparts regarding the procurement of F-35s are ongoing, and consultations continue for the removal of sanctions and obstacles regarding the procurement of F-35s and for our country's re-inclusion in the program. It is assessed that addressing the process related to the F-35 project within the framework of the spirit of alliance, mutual dialogue, and constructive consultation will positively contribute to the relations between the two countries.
LAST STATUS ON EUROFIGHTER PROCUREMENT
As stated by our President during the signing ceremony, until the delivery of the new production aircraft to be procured from the United Kingdom begins, it is planned to acquire 12 aircraft each from Qatar and Oman as an interim solution. The aircraft to be acquired from Qatar will be brought to our country following the signing of the contract, while the aircraft to be procured from Oman will be brought after the planned modernization activities.