Azez, the region nearby Aleppo, hosts almost 300.000 people who mainly seek security from the existing clash environment. Its position as a safe zone has many levels to be discussed both in political and humanitarian terms. In this analysis, the situation in Azez is re-evaluated regarding the general situation in Syria, the influence of Turkey’s existence in the region, and the question of a “safe zone”.
To explain further, as it is widely known, Syria suffers from a long-lasting clash between several regional forces. This constant catastrophic environment has caused the death of thousands of people and led others to seek another place to live in.
Turkey has been given greater importance considering its efforts to create a safe zone for its strategic concerns that causing it to be labeled an expansionist in the international area. She is a neighbor country of Syria is closely linked to the political situation in the region. Due to this fact, Turkish policy has prioritized the protection of its own security and position since the beginning of the conflict. It is seen that Turkey has also played an important role in Azez by providing forces and encouraging humanitarian aid going to the region.
Based on the findings, it is noted that Azez is not yet safe as it is supposed to be due to the fact that the region is surrounded by several forces, including terrorist organizations, conflicting with each other. It is indicated that even the city of Turkey, Kilis, has suffered from the missile attacks coming from Syria. The fear of dominance of terrorist organizations still continues and shapes the Turkish policy in the region.
As a result of this analysis, there are plenty of points to be put forward. The living condition in Azez is not adequate for a humane life. Especially the humanitarian aid for babies is among the most needed support. The security in the region is not met because of the missile attacks coming from the south. To conclude from the overall perspective, there is an urgency for a political strategy that will take into account the long-term consequence of Turkey’s presence in the region. Turkey should refrain from a possible chronic foreign policy burden because of the safe zone line including Azez.
