Turkey is Idlib’s safeguard

The Prime Minister of the Syria Interim Government, Jawad Abu Hatab, said Turkey was a critical source of security in Syria’s opposition-held Idlib.

"The people of Idlib resist the invasion of Russia, the U.S. and other similar forces. Turkish soldiers are our source of trust and security and if they come to the region, our people will embrace them with open arms,” said Hatab in an exclusive interview with Yeni Şafak.

"We are confronted with the dirty attempt of the dark forces in Syria. All malicious forces have set their sights on Idlib. In this process, Turkey is our most important source of trust and security.”

Hatab, who made evaluations regarding the recent Idlib crisis, stated that 2.9 million civilians, including one million civilians in camps, are trying to survive in difficult conditions around Idlib.

The prime minister said any attack on Idlib would be the greatest catastrophe Syria has experienced in the six-year civil war.

“Every option that does not include Turkey will only worsen the humanitarian crisis in the region,” said Hatab.

"Iranian-backed Shia forces, the U.S., Russia and the PKK are perceived as threats and enemies to the people of Syria."

Hatab believes a permanent solution can only be realized within the framework of a plan that includes Turkey. "The Turkish army has always stood beside us as our friend who maintains our norms and human values," he said.

"The Syrian Interim Government is ready to support Turkey's decisions regarding Idlib," said Hatab, adding, "All non-governmental organizations and armed resistance groups in Syria must cooperate and work together. Negative forces in Syria such as Assad, Iran, Russia and the U.S. can only be stopped in this way.”

The prime minister emphasized that "the bonds of brotherhood will become stronger if Turkey takes initiative in Idlib and prevents the people of Syria from facing a new disaster.”