Turkish Ministry of National Defense has positioned Ankara as a conditional stakeholder in Syria’s latest flare-up, signaling readiness to assist Damascus while stopping short of unilateral involvement. In a statement issued on Jan. 8, the ministry said Türkiye would provide support “if Syria requests assistance”, underscoring a policy framework anchored in sovereignty, territorial integrity, and counterterrorism. The language reflects Ankara’s effort to balance regional influence with legal and diplomatic restraint as fighting intensifies in Aleppo, Syria’s largest northern city.

The ministry said clashes escalated after the killing of four people and the injury of 18 others, prompting the Syrian transitional government to launch what it described as a “counterterrorism operation” in the city. According to the statement, the operation was carried out “entirely” by the Syrian army. Türkiye emphasized it was closely monitoring developments and reiterated its support for “Syria’s unity and territorial integrity” alongside its fight against terrorist organizations.

“Entirely by the Syrian Army”

Turkish Ministry of National Defense directly addressed claims circulating about external involvement, stating that military action in Aleppo was conducted solely by Syrian government forces. The clarification appeared aimed at countering allegations raised by the SDF terrorist group, which accused multiple armed factions of taking part in the clashes. The SDF claimed that groups including Hemzat, Emshat, Sultan Murad, and Nureddin Zengi were involved. These factions had previously announced their intention to join Syria’s national army following the fall of Bashar al-Assad.

Türkiye’s statement did not address those allegations individually but stressed that it was neither directing nor participating in the operation. Instead, Ankara framed its position as supportive but reactive, conditioned on a formal request from Damascus. “In this context, if Syria requests assistance, Türkiye will provide the necessary support,” the ministry said.

Aleppo as Escalation Control Test

On the ground, the situation in Aleppo continues to deteriorate. Fighting has persisted for three consecutive days between Syrian government forces and SDF terrorist group. Both sides have reported casualties, though exact figures remain contested. The SDF denied maintaining a military presence in Aleppo and accused Syrian forces of targeting civilians, a claim Damascus has rejected.

Syrian authorities declared the predominantly Kurdish neighborhoods of Sheikh Maksoud and Ashrafiyeh as limited military zones. The army announced it would begin strikes on designated targets at 13:30 local time, extending operations to Bani Zaid as well. A curfew was imposed across the affected districts, sharply restricting civilian movement.

Humanitarian Corridors and Civilian Flight

Amid the fighting, Syrian officials said two humanitarian corridors were opened to allow civilian evacuations. Authorities stated that safe passage was provided and that displacement has accelerated. More than 45,000 people have left Aleppo city since the escalation began, highlighting the humanitarian impact of the renewed violence.