What is happening in Aleppo is against Iran and Russia, benefiting Turkey: The Arabologist explains the situation
Under the leadership of the Islamist Hayat Tahrir al-Sham politico-military organization, militants have been causing significant destruction in Aleppo and Idlib for several days. We discussed the ongoing events, their impact on the Armenian community, and their influence on Armenia with Arabologist Armen Petrosyan.
The situation is quite tense and uncertain. The Arabologist explains that the primary concern is the safety of the Armenian community, as the group responsible for the attack is of an extremist nature. It has a history of various brutal acts, particularly against minorities, and is known for its radical governance ideology based on extremist interpretations of Islam and Sharia law.
From this perspective, the uncertainty for the Syrian-Armenian community naturally increases significantly, compounded by the ongoing military operations, which are certain to continue. These will further exacerbate security issues in Aleppo.
The Arabologist believes that the region is likely to become a theater of active military operations if Syrian government forces decide to make efforts to regain control of the city. Reports in the media also suggest Turkey’s direct involvement. However, the Arabologist refrains from making predictions or definitive assessments in this regard.
While this group has not been directly influenced by any external actor, such a possibility cannot be ruled out. It is difficult to assert that Turkey is directly behind the situation, but it is undeniable that they will be among the primary beneficiaries of these developments.
Petrosyan elaborated on what Turkey might gain from the current situation.
Turkey could carry out another incursion into Syria under the guise of establishing a security zone. Another possibility is that it might encourage its proxy groups to act against the Kurds, as has happened before. In other words, Turkey is undoubtedly taking advantage of this situation.
The Arabologist notes that these events align with the interests of several countries, including Israel and the West.
This operation weakens Iran and serves Western interests, as it opens a new front against Russia. The resumed conflict also targets Iran and Russia. The attackers have clearly understood that following operations against Hezbollah, Iran has been significantly weakened. On the other hand, the West is further escalating tensions in the Ukraine war and aims to weaken Russia further by opening a new front against it. Considering these and various factors, the group initiated this operation at this specific time.
It is worth noting that we also discussed the condition of the Armenian community with Zarmik Pogikian, editor of Aleppo’s Gandzasar weekly.