Turkey Initiates Training of Syrian Forces Under New Security Agreement

Turkey has commenced training Syrian forces as part of a security agreement signed in August 2025. This initiative aims to bolster Syria's military capabilities and is expected to involve the training of approximately 5,000 Syrian soldiers and police in the short term, with plans to increase this number to at least 20,000 over the medium to long term. Concurrently, Turkish security forces have begun withdrawing from northern Aleppo, where they have been stationed for nearly eight years as part of the Syria Task Force, which was instrumental in securing areas previously held by the Islamic State group and Kurdish fighters.

Turkey begins training the new Syrian armyMiddle East EyeTurkey begins training Syrian forces under new security deal: reportForeign PolicySDC: Two de facto governments in Syria, dispute over nature of integrationTurkish Chief of Staff Hosts Syrian Air Force Commander in Ankara

The training program is part of a broader effort to restructure Syria's armed forces, providing military expertise and equipment to help Damascus address both internal and external threats. The Turkish Defense Ministry has indicated that the agreement includes provisions for training, consultancy, and equipment procurement. Discussions are also ongoing regarding a more comprehensive defense pact that could potentially involve Turkish troop deployments to key Syrian bases, although the current agreement does not establish such a framework.

Middle East EyeTurkey begins training the new Syrian armyTurkey begins training Syrian forces under new security deal: reportTurkish Chief of Staff Hosts Syrian Air Force Commander in AnkaraSDC: Two de facto governments in Syria, dispute over nature of integrationForeign PolicyTRT World

The training initiative has raised concerns about potential clashes between Turkish and Israeli forces. Following recent Israeli airstrikes targeting military sites in Syria, including those reportedly housing Turkish-made missiles, an Israeli security source accused Turkey of attempting to provoke a military confrontation. Israel has emphasized its commitment to demilitarizing southern Syria and has stated it will respond to any perceived threats to its security, regardless of their origin.

Turkey begins training Syrian forces under new security deal: reportMiddle East EyeTurkey begins training the new Syrian armyForeign PolicyTRT World

Critics of the agreement express concerns about the implications for regional stability. The ongoing violence in Suwayda, which has seen sectarian clashes and a breakdown of order, underscores the fragility of the situation in Syria. Observers note that Israel's military actions and Turkey's growing involvement could exacerbate tensions and complicate the already precarious political landscape.

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The Turkish Ministry of Defense has framed the training initiative as a critical step in supporting Syria's transition and enhancing its defense capabilities. Meanwhile, the Syrian government has expressed a desire for military cooperation but has not officially acknowledged the training program. Turkish officials have reiterated their commitment to combating terrorism and ensuring Syria's territorial integrity, warning that failure by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to integrate into the Syrian army could lead to armed confrontation.

SDC: Two de facto governments in Syria, dispute over nature of integrationMiddle East EyeTurkey begins training the new Syrian armyTurkey begins training Syrian forces under new security deal: reportForeign PolicyTurkish Chief of Staff Hosts Syrian Air Force Commander in Ankara

• “Turkey will continue to support Syria in combating terrorism and strengthening its defence and security structures,” — Turkish Ministry of Defense

Turkish Chief of Staff Hosts Syrian Air Force Commander in Ankara

• “Turkey is trying to harass us and drag us into a military confrontation that we do not fear, but do not want,” — Israeli Security Source

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As Turkey and Syria deepen their military cooperation, the situation remains fluid. Future developments may include further negotiations on the broader defense pact and ongoing discussions regarding the integration of the SDF into the Syrian military framework. The evolving dynamics in the region will likely continue to influence Turkey's strategic posture and its relations with both Syria and Israel.

SDC: Two de facto governments in Syria, dispute over nature of integration