Turkey is reportedly taking steps to gain control of Syria's Tiyas air base, also known as T4, to enhance its military presence in the region. According to sources cited by Middle East Eye (MEE) on April 1, Turkey is preparing to deploy air defense systems at the base, which could be used to strike Islamic State (ISIS) targets and deter Israeli air force operations in Syria.
This move comes after months of negotiations between Turkey and Syria’s post-Assad government, which many analysts believe is heavily influenced by Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Talks have been ongoing since December about forming a defense pact, following the retreat of long-time Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and his allies in the face of armed groups backed by Turkey. The deal would see Turkey, a NATO member, provide air cover and military protection for Syria’s new government.
Turkey’s growing presence in Syria could fill the power vacuum left by the withdrawal of forces loyal to Assad’s former allies, Russia and Iran. However, Israel, which has established a strong presence in southern Syria since Assad’s fall, might view a strengthened Turkish military presence as a threat to its security.
According to the report, Turkey plans to deploy a Hisar-type air defense system at T4 to provide air cover for the base. Once the system is in place, the base will be reconstructed and expanded with additional facilities. Turkey also intends to deploy surveillance and armed drones, including those with extended strike capabilities. Over time, Turkey aims to create a layered air defense system around the base, equipped with short, medium, and long-range capabilities to counter both jets and drones.
Israel has been concerned about the growing Turkish influence in Syria and has regularly targeted military assets left behind by Assad’s forces. Recent Israeli airstrikes have targeted T4 and the Palmyra air base, focusing on runways and strategic military assets.
An Israeli security source, speaking to the Jerusalem Post on March 31, said that any Turkish air base in Syria would restrict Israel’s operational freedom in the region, which they strongly oppose.
News
Niger Replaces French with Hausa as National Language
Niger's military-led government has officially adopted Hausa as the country’s national language, replacing French.
Two Lagos Drivers Jailed for Attacking LASTMA Officials on Duty
A Lagos Mobile Court has sentenced two commercial drivers to three months in jail for attacking officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) while they were carrying out their duties.
Teacher Shortage Hits 98,000 in Kenya, Causing Education Crisis
Kenya is facing a looming crisis in the education sector, with a shortage of 98,261 teachers, according to the Teachers Service Commission (TSC).
Mount Kanlaon Eruption Escalates, Ash Reaches 4,000 Meters
Mount Kanlaon, located between the provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental in the Central Philippines, erupted again on the morning of April 8, sending a column of ash about 4,000 meters into the sky.
Missing Family Found Safe After Night in Tsavo East Park
A family of four that went missing in Tsavo East National Park was found safe on Tuesday morning after an overnight search.
Justin Muturi Says Security Withdrawal Linked to Political Stance
Former Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi says his security detail was withdrawn on Monday night without any official explanation.
Gates Foundation Ends Kenya Deal Amid Immunity Backlash
The Gates Foundation has officially withdrawn from a host country agreement it had signed with the Kenyan government, following growing public criticism and a court case challenging the deal.
South Sudan Blames U.S. Visa Ban on Rejection of Non-Citizen Deportee
South Sudan has blamed a recent U.S. decision to revoke visas held by its citizens on a dispute over a deportee who was not South Sudanese.
Two Arrested Over Murder of 80-Year-Old Woman in Anambra
Police in Anambra State have arrested two men in connection with the murder of an 80-year-old woman, Mrs.
Nigerian Celebrity Bobrisky Jailed for Abusing Banknotes at Event
Nigerian transgender celebrity Bobrisky has been sentenced to six months in jail after a court convicted her of improperly handling banknotes during a film premiere.
Egerton University Students Protest After Female Student Attacked
Tensions erupted at Egerton University on Monday night when students protested violently after a female student was attacked inside one of the hostels.
Driver Hospitalized After Car Veers Off Otedola Bridge in Lagos
Panic spread along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday after a car veered off Otedola Bridge, causing concern among commuters and pedestrians.
UK Defence Chief Meets Wanjiru Family, Vows Justice Support
UK Defence Secretary John Healey on Monday met the family of Agnes Wanjiru in Nairobi, reaffirming his government’s commitment to ensuring justice is served in her long-standing murder case.
Netanyahu to Meet Trump on Turkey, Iran, and ICC Issues
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will meet with former U.S.