Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described the fall of Assad’s brutal regime as a pivotal moment in the region, emphasizing its potential to foster peace, stability, and the voluntary return of Syrian refugees. Speaking at the “Brotherhood Face for the World Human Rights Day” program in Ankara on Tuesday, Erdogan reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to humanitarian values and its support for Syrians during this transformative phase.
Erdogan began his address by extending his congratulations to the Syrian people, stating, “I send my greetings and deep love to our Syrian brothers who regained their freedom after 61 years of oppression and injustice.” He framed the collapse of the Assad regime as the end of a dark era, hailing it as the beginning of a brighter chapter for Syria and the region.
Reflecting on the atrocities of the Assad regime, Erdogan highlighted Sednaya prison as a stark symbol of injustice, calling it “a center of torture and death.” He added, “When we look at places like Sednaya, we better understand the humanitarian catastrophe that was averted with the end of that bloody regime.”
Erdogan asserted that the fall of Assad’s dictatorship marked the opening of “the road to peace and security” in Syria, expressing optimism that stability would encourage the voluntary return of Syrian refugees to their homeland.
Throughout his remarks, Erdogan emphasized Turkey’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian principles and highlighted the country’s historical role as a refuge for the oppressed. “We did not ask those who came to our doors whether they were Turks, Arabs, or Kurds. We opened the doors of our country and our hearts without discrimination,” he said.
Erdogan criticized global powers for their silence on human rights violations in Syria, asserting, “In Syria, our neighbor, we witnessed the worst types of injustice in history, while those who claim to defend human rights remained silent.”
The president also took aim at Turkish opposition parties for their divisive rhetoric on refugees. Referring to the Republican People’s Party (CHP), Erdogan said, “Attempts to sabotage the positive atmosphere in Syria are shameful. The mentality that fueled hatred against refugees lost, just as the unjust Assad regime lost.”
Erdogan outlined Turkey’s plans to facilitate the voluntary return of Syrian refugees, including reopening the Yayla Dagi crossing to alleviate pressure on other border points. He stressed that Turkey’s military operations in Syria were not aimed at territorial gain but at ensuring the safety of its citizens from terrorist groups like ISIS and the PKK. “The PKK and ISIS are enemies of Turkey, and we are keen to protect the unity of Syrian territory,” Erdogan said.
Erdogan concluded his speech by expressing hope for Syria’s future, declaring, “The strong winds of change blowing over Syria will bring positive results for all Syrians, especially immigrants.” He commended the Turkish people for their compassion and humanity, stating, “We will remain proud of our role in embracing Syrian refugees during their most difficult days.” The fall of the Assad regime, Erdogan asserted, represents not only a victory for the Syrian people but also an opportunity for regional reconciliation and the rebuilding of trust and stability.
