Al-Sharaa discusses with Erdogan and Macron the latest developments in Aleppo and northern Syria
Amid intensive diplomatic efforts to contain the recent escalation in northern Syria, Foreign Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh held important discussions via separate phone calls with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and French President Emmanuel Macron. The talks focused primarily on the rapidly evolving situation on the ground in Aleppo province and ways to avert further humanitarian disasters in the city and surrounding region in light of the current tensions.
The strategic and political importance of Aleppo
These contacts come at a highly sensitive time, as Aleppo constitutes a key strategic hub on the Syrian map. Historically, Aleppo has been the country's economic capital and a vital link via international highways (M4 and M5). Any change in the balance of power or stability in this province not only impacts Syria internally, but also extends its influence to regional and international security, which explains the direct interest of influential international and regional powers such as Turkey and France.
Turkey's role and security concerns
During the call with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, shared security concerns were discussed. Turkey considers the stability of Aleppo and its surrounding areas an integral part of its national security, given its long border with Syria. Ankara is constantly concerned that any renewed violence in Aleppo could lead to mass displacement towards its borders, a situation that would place significant pressure on Turkey domestically. Therefore, Turkey typically focuses on maintaining calm and preventing the collapse of previously established de-escalation zones.
The French position and the humanitarian dimension
On another front, the call with French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the humanitarian and political dimensions of the crisis. France plays an active role within the European Union on the Syrian issue, with Paris consistently emphasizing the need to protect civilians and adhere to international resolutions, particularly Resolution 2254. The French side believes that the military escalation in Aleppo could undermine efforts toward a comprehensive political solution, necessitating urgent diplomatic intervention to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid and prevent further deterioration of the living conditions of the population.
The repercussions of the event and the future of the region
These talks are significant because they represent an attempt to control the course of events before they spiral out of control. Developments in Aleppo often serve as an indicator of the trajectory of the entire Syrian crisis. Observers hope these contacts will lead to practical steps that ensure de-escalation and reaffirm that military solutions will not bring lasting stability, and that diplomatic dialogue is the only way to spare the region further destruction and human suffering.
