Ankara- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres held a phone conversation to address the escalating situation in Syria. The discussion emphasized the urgency of stabilizing the region amidst heightened tensions and ongoing conflict.
Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to preventing instability and civilian harm. “The Syrian government must urgently engage with its own people to work towards a comprehensive political solution, ” Erdogan stated, according to a release from his office.
At a subsequent UN press briefing, Guterres echoed the need for immediate humanitarian relief and a return to diplomatic processes under UN facilitation to end the prolonged conflict.
“All parties are obligated under international law to protect civilians, ” Guterres stressed. He called for restoring Syria’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, while addressing the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people.
Escalation in Northern Syria
The conflict has seen a significant escalation since November 27, with rebel groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) launching a major offensive in northern Syria. Rebel forces have made unexpected advances, capturing strategic cities such as Aleppo and Hama, further complicating the crisis in a nation already devastated by 13 years of civil war.
Both leaders highlighted the pressing need for collaborative international efforts to de-escalate the conflict and prioritize the well-being of civilians.