SYRIA: Council of Christian Churches in Gozarto (Jazira) and Euphrates denounces continued Turkish threats

ZALIN, Syria — Amid the repeated Turkish threats to launch a military operation against North and East Syria, several political, social, human rights and religious bodies issued statements in which they denounced the Turkish threats.

As the situation continues to deteriorate, the Council of Christian Churches in Gozarto (Jazira) and Euphrates issued a statement condemning Turkey’s aggressive policies.

“Since the beginning of the Syrian war, Turkey has aimed to control parts of Syrian territory, taking advantage of instability in the world,” read the statement. “Turkey deliberately employed terrorist groups to achieve its colonial plans and control regions in northern Syria such as [Cafrin (Afrin)] and [Rish Ayno (Ras al-Ayn)], under pretexts like protection of Turkish national security.”

The Council condemned any Turkish attempt to attack Syrian territory, considering it a violation of international law.

“We demand the UN Security Council and international community stand in the face of this conspiracy that will lead to new civilian displacement and exacerbation of the existing dilemmas,” the statement concluded.