OPINION:
Turkey’s intervention in Syria is uncovering the intention and purpose of the Turkish regime, which is expanding its power in the region and increasing attacks on Kurdish groups. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan claims Turkey is protecting its border. But it has conducted military operations against the Syrian regime inside the country and engaged in ground battles and air attacks. This situation has added disasters on top of existing catastrophes being suffered by the Syrian people.
Turkey has always vowed to battle the Kurdish militia in the region. The history of Turkey and the Kurds is stained with blood and continuously repeats itself. Syrian President Bashar Assad is facing multiple groups in the battle, which puts the government in a weak position and leaves the borders unsecured. It’s an opportunity for Turkey to break the boundaries, enter Syria and attack the Kurds.
However, the situation is serving multiple interests. As President Trump intends to reduce military actions in the area, having Turkey in the direct battle against Iran-backed militias and the Syrian government is a way for the United States to have a fist in the fight. In return, Turkey has the green light to enter Syria to fight the government and the Kurdish militia.
SERWAN ZANGANA
Roanoke, Va.
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