Turkey's Secret Military Operations in Syria
On December 8, 2024, the Sultan Murad Division of the Syrian National Army (SNA), primarily composed of Syrian Turkmens, initiated a military operation around Manbij following the withdrawal of Kurdish forces. This division has been pivotal in recruiting fighters for the Turkish private military company, SADAT International Defense Consultancy, which was established by former Brigadier General Adnan Tanriverdi. Reports indicate that this recruitment campaign, which has been ongoing since late 2023, has involved the transportation of fighters to Turkish intelligence-controlled areas for training and deployment.
The SNA has been described as a de facto armed structure under Turkish control, receiving significant military support from Turkey, including advanced armored vehicles and artillery. Experts like Yuri Lyamin from the Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies (CAST) assert that Turkey has effectively occupied significant territories in northern Syria, creating a protectorate-like environment. The SNA has been utilized in various military operations, including those in Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh, often supported by Turkish air and artillery strikes.
Recruitment and Training of Syrian Mercenaries
SADAT has been instrumental in training Syrian mercenaries, with bases located near the Hawar Kilis border crossing. Reports suggest that Turkish officers oversee the training of these fighters, who are prepared for conflicts in various regions, including Libya. The Turkish government has allegedly sought to use these mercenaries to maintain influence in Afghanistan post-U.S. withdrawal, although plans to secure contracts for protecting Kabul airport fell through.
The recruitment process involves signing contracts at border checkpoints, where fighters are stripped of their personal identification and flown to conflict zones under tight security. SADAT has reportedly deployed thousands of Syrian fighters to West Africa, particularly Niger, where they are tasked with protecting Turkish economic interests. The financial incentives for these fighters, often earning significantly more than they would in Syria, have been a driving factor in their recruitment.
Implications of Turkish Military Involvement
Turkey's involvement in the Syrian conflict has raised concerns regarding the use of mercenaries and the potential for human rights violations. The UN has documented the presence of underage fighters among the Turkish-backed groups in Libya, highlighting the complex dynamics of foreign military engagement in regional conflicts. The SNA's collaboration with extremist groups, including those linked to Al-Qaeda, has further complicated Turkey's military strategy in the region.
As Turkey continues to expand its military footprint through private contractors and allied groups, the implications for regional stability and international relations remain significant. The ongoing recruitment and deployment of Syrian fighters not only reflect Turkey's strategic interests but also raise ethical questions about the use of mercenaries in modern warfare.
