Bangladesh, Dec. 7 -- In a statement that has drawn widespread condemnation, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his hope for the success of jihadist forces in Syria, urging their continued advance toward Damascus. His remarks, reported by multiple outlets on December 6, have raised alarm about Türkiyes role in the Syrian conflict and its complex relationship with extremist groups.

Militant forces led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), an al-Qaeda-linked group formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra, launched a surprise offensive last week from their base in Idlib. The assault has targeted Aleppo Province, with reports indicating significant territorial gains by the insurgents. Over the past week, HTS has captured key areas in Al...