Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s recent comments about potentially meeting with Syrian President Bashar al-Assad have stirred up controversy among Syrian figures. Erdogan expressed his intention to improve relations with Syria, which has sparked criticism from various active and legal figures in the Syrian conflict. Demonstrations against the potential opening of the Abu al-Zindeen crossing, linking regime and opposition-controlled areas, saw protesters chanting anti-Erdogan slogans.
Meanwhile, citizens in Azaz and Atmeh also held protests rejecting any collaboration between the opposition and the regime. Former coalition head Moaz al-Khatib questioned the accountability of those responsible for the suffering of the Syrian people, highlighting the delay in finding a resolution to the conflict.
Political analyst Qahtan al-Sharqi speculated on Erdogan’s statements, suggesting military or political implications. However, Firas Faham of the Abaad Center for Strategic Studies emphasized that Erdogan’s potential diplomatic approach towards Assad is influenced by Russian interests, rather than impending elections or refugee issues.
Overall, the situation reflects complex regional dynamics and conflicting interests driving the Syrian conflict.