18/09/2023

Iran proposes action plan for Turkish withdrawal from Syrian territory

TEHRAN — Iran’s Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, revealed a proposed action plan aimed at resolving the dispute over the presence of Turkish military forces in northern Syria. The plan, presented during a diplomatic meeting between officials from Iran, Turkey, Syria, and Russia, suggests a pathway toward the withdrawal of Turkish troops from Syrian soil and the deployment of Syrian regime forces along the border between the two nations.

Following a period of tentative diplomatic engagement between the Syrian and Turkish governments, the Iranian Foreign Minister disclosed the proposal, highlighting its potential to address the ongoing tensions in northern Syria. Under this plan, Turkey would conduct a phased withdrawal of its military personnel from Syrian territory, while Syria would assume responsibility for securing the border region. Additionally, both Iran and Russia would serve as guarantors of the agreement reached by the involved parties.

Amir-Abdollahian noted that the Syrian regime has expressed its readiness to ensure border security from within its own territory. However, as of yet, there has been no official response or statement from Damascus regarding the proposed plan. Turkish officials have also refrained from providing public comments or reactions to the proposal, however, it is unlikely Turkey would agree to any plan that would see an influx of Syrian refugees crossing into Turkey.