A Turkish Ministry of Defense source confirmed to Asharq Al-Awsat reports about plans to establish a military base in Syria.
The source, who requested anonymity, said Türkiye is evaluating, in line with the new Syrian government's requests, the possibility of setting up a training base to enhance the capabilities of the Syrian military.
This statement was made in response to questions during a weekly press briefing by the Turkish Ministry of Defense on Thursday, addressing recent reports regarding the potential establishment of a Turkish military base in Palmyra, Homs province, and an airbase at the Menagh Military Airport in Aleppo province.
“All our activities in Syria are coordinated in advance with the relevant parties, and all necessary security measures are taken,” the source added.
They emphasized that maintaining Syria’s territorial integrity, enabling the new Syrian government to extend its authority over all Syrian territory, and establishing stability and security in the country are of utmost importance to Türkiye.
Reports have suggested the possibility of a joint defense agreement between Türkiye and the Syrian Interim Government, which could include the establishment of Turkish airbases in central Syria and the training of the new Syrian military.
Reuters, citing both Syrian and foreign sources, reported that the agreement, which according to a Turkish news outlet is expected to be signed by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and transitional Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa, would allow Türkiye to establish two bases in Syria’s vast desert region, known as the Badia.
