Turkey backing Syria’s military and has no immediate withdrawal plans, defence minister says

Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler takes part in a NATO Defence Ministers’ meeting at the Alliance’s headquarters in Brussels, Belgium October 12, 2023. REUTERS/Johanna Geron Purchase Licensing Rights

| Published June 4, 2025

Turkey has emerged as a pivotal ally to Syria’s new government following the ousting of President Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. Defense Minister Yasar Guler announced that Turkey is actively supporting Syria’s military by providing training, consultancy services, and enhancing its defense capabilities. Currently, over 20,000 Turkish troops are stationed in Syria, with no immediate plans for withdrawal. Guler emphasized that any reconsideration of troop presence would depend on achieving peace, stability, and full border security.

This strategic partnership marks a significant shift from Turkey’s previous support for Syrian rebels. Turkey is now committed to assisting in Syria’s reconstruction and facilitating the return of refugees. However, this growing influence has raised tensions with Israel, which continues airstrikes in Syria and has expressed concerns over Turkish involvement. Despite these tensions, Turkey and Israel are engaging in technical de-confliction talks to avoid direct military conflict, though Turkey clarified that these discussions should not be mistaken for normalization of relations.

Turkey’s involvement in Syria also intersects with the complex dynamics involving the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). While the SDF has agreed to integrate into Syria’s national armed forces, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has accused them of stalling the process. Despite historical hostilities, SDF commander Mazloum Abdi revealed ongoing direct communication with Turkey and expressed openness to improving relations, including the possibility of meeting Erdogan.

In summary, Turkey’s deepening role in Syria reflects a strategic realignment in the region, with Ankara positioning itself as a key player in Syria’s post-Assad era. While aiming to stabilize the region and counter terrorism, Turkey’s actions have introduced new complexities, particularly concerning relations with Israel and the Kurdish forces.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, accompanied by Defence Minister Yasar Guler, attends a graduation ceremony at the Naval Academy in Istanbul, Turkey August 31, 2024. REUTERS/Murad Sezer/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights

The implications of Turkey’s deepening military and political involvement in Syria are significant, both regionally and internationally:

1. Shift in Regional Alliances

Turkey’s backing of Syria’s new government marks a major shift from its previous support of anti-Assad rebels. This realignment may:

Redefine alliances across the Middle East.
Strengthen ties between Ankara and Damascus, potentially leading to shared influence over regional security matters.

2. Increased Tensions with Israel

Turkey’s growing presence in Syria has already raised alarms in Israel, which continues airstrikes to counter Iranian and Hezbollah influence. Turkey’s military footprint and cooperation with Syria’s army could:

Lead to increased risk of military confrontation or miscalculation.
Complicate Israel’s strategy in Syria, especially regarding Iran’s role.

3. Kurdish Autonomy at Risk

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), led by Kurdish factions, are under pressure to integrate into the Syrian military. Turkey’s insistence on cracking down on Kurdish autonomy reflects:

Ankara’s long-standing fears of a Kurdish state.
A potential rollback of gains made by Kurdish groups in northern Syria.

4. Refugee Repatriation and Reconstruction

Turkey is positioning itself as a leader in Syria’s post-war reconstruction and the return of millions of refugees, which could:

Help stabilize border areas.
Bolster Erdogan’s domestic standing ahead of future elections.
Raise questions about whether returns will be voluntary and safe.

5. Complication for Western Influence

Turkey’s moves may challenge U.S. and EU leverage in Syria, particularly if:

Western nations continue to isolate Damascus.
Turkey becomes a broker between the Syrian government and other powers.

Overall Takeaway:

Turkey is asserting itself as a dominant force in shaping Syria’s future after Assad’s fall—militarily, politically, and diplomatically. This marks a dramatic realignment in the Middle East, with Turkey moving from a backer of opposition forces to a central ally of the Syrian state. While it opens doors for stability and reconstruction, it also introduces new geopolitical friction—especially with Israel and Kurdish factions—and signals a broader shift in regional power dynamics.