Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 October 2019
113. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on a planned Turkish invasion of northern Syria; his views on whether such an invasion by the Turkish military poses a threat to the Kurdish community and minority ethnic and religious groups in the region; his further views on whether such an invasion will also hamper the fight against Daesh-ISIS; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41742/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra118. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the US Administration’s decision to withdraw troops from northern Syria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41749/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra126. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on the military action by Turkey in the Kurdish controlled part of Syria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42285/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 113, 118 and 126 together.
On 6 October, the US announced the withdrawal of US troops from north-east Syria, ahead of a Turkish offensive into Syrian territory. Turkey commenced military operations on 9 October, with the stated aim of preventing ‘the creation of a terror corridor’ along its border with Syria. These developments are deeply troubling. Turkey's military action has the potential to further destabilise a region which is still reeling from the fight against ISIS.
While we understand Turkey’s security concerns about its own territory, these concerns should be addressed through political and diplomatic means, in accordance with international humanitarian law. I am particularly concerned about the humanitarian impact of a military escalation and its potential to cause further displacement of civilian populations. In a statement on 9 October, I stressed that the protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law must be paramount.
I am also concerned about the long-term security implications of these developments. The fight against ISIS made decisive progress earlier this year. However, there remain individuals who have the potential to take advantage of any relaxation of vigilance Any unilateral military action against those groups which played a decisive frontline role in the fight against ISIS risks undermining this progress. It is also imperative that terrorist fighters remain securely detained, until their situation can be resolved, in order to prevent them joining the ranks of terrorist groups.
The position of the EU was made clear in a Declaration released on 9 October by the High Representative, reaffirming that a sustainable solution to the Syrian conflict cannot be achieved militarily, and calling upon Turkey to cease the unilateral action.
It is unlikely that the so-called ‘safe zone’ in north-east Syria, as envisaged by Turkey, would satisfy international criteria for refugee return as laid down by UNHCR. Ireland and the EU have maintained that returns of refugees and internally-displaced people to their places of origin must be voluntary, dignified and safe. The EU has been clear that any attempt at demographic change would be unacceptable. The EU will not provide stabilisation or development assistance in areas where the rights of local populations are ignored.
All military action in Syria risks undermining the work of the UN in attempting to facilitate a negotiated end to the conflict, and a political transition which meets the legitimate aspirations of the Syrian people. I take this opportunity to reiterate Ireland’s strong support for the work of the UN Special Envoy and urge all parties to engage with the UN-led process.
