Washington -At a recent press conference in Florida, President-elect Donald Trump referred to the removal of Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces as an "unfriendly takeover" led by Turkey, a key U.S. ally, amidst ongoing discussions about the conflict in Syria.
During his address, Trump praised Turkey's strategic actions, stating, "Turkey is very clever… They managed an unfriendly takeover with minimal loss of life. Assad was a brutal dictator, particularly in his actions against children."
The downfall of Assad's regime followed a swift offensive by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), which captured multiple cities and advanced to the Syrian capital earlier this month, resulting in Assad seeking asylum in Russia.
The unexpected collapse of Assad's government shocked the international community and sparked widespread celebrations inside Syria and beyond, marking a turning point in the conflict that began with Assad's harsh response to protests in 2011.
HTS, originating from Syria's Al-Qaeda branch, is labeled as a terrorist organization by several Western nations. Despite this, the group has attempted to soften its rhetoric and assured protection for the country's religious minorities.
Since the beginning of the anti-Assad movement in 2011, Turkey has been perceived as a vital supporter of opposition forces. It has provided a haven for political opposition, hosted millions of refugees, and supported rebel groups combatting the Syrian army.
In later years, HTS gained control of regions in northwestern Syria near the Turkish border. From these areas, HTS and allied rebel groups launched the offensive that ultimately led to Assad's removal.
Turkey has conducted military operations inside Syria and indicated readiness to support the newly established Islamist-led government set up by the rebels. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has prioritized removing Kurdish separatist fighters from Syria, a goal supported by the new government.
"Turkey is a formidable force, and Erdogan is someone I've had a great rapport with," Trump commented. "He commands a major military force, which hasn't been exhausted by war… He has built a strong, powerful army."
