This story at a glance…

1. Blinken and Turkey discussed stopping ISIS in Syria.

2. Both emphasized the need for stability and security.

3. Northern Syria sees clashes between U.S.-backed Kurds and Turkish rebels.

4. No specific agreements were announced, but talks continue.

U.S. and Turkey Discuss Containing Islamic State

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken met with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan in Ankara to discuss ways to stop the Islamic State (ISIS) from making a comeback in Syria. Blinken reminded everyone how much effort has already been put into defeating the militant group, likening the fight to putting out a massive fire.

“Our countries worked very hard and gave a lot over many years to ensure the elimination of the territorial caliphate of ISIS,” he said. “It’s imperative that we keep at those efforts to ensure that threat doesn’t rear its head again.”

Blinken and Fidan stressed that vigilance is crucial, as Syria’s ongoing instability creates opportunities for groups like ISIS to grow back, much like weeds in an untended garden.

Tensions in Northern Syria
The two leaders also discussed ongoing conflicts in northern Syria, where different groups with different backers are clashing for control. U.S.-backed Kurdish forces and Turkish-supported rebels have been fighting over key areas, making it harder to maintain peace.

Fidan outlined Turkey’s concerns, saying their goal is to prevent any terrorist groups, whether ISIS or the PKK (a Kurdish group Turkey considers a threat), from gaining power in Syria. “Our priority in Syria is to ensure stability as soon as possible, to prevent terrorism from gaining ground,” Fidan said.

This week, Turkish-backed forces took control of the city of Manbij, forcing the U.S.-supported Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) to retreat east of the Euphrates River. While reports suggest the U.S. and Turkey coordinated this move, neither Blinken nor Fidan confirmed it.

Fidan described their discussions as open and collaborative: “We discussed in detail what we can do about these [issues], what our common concerns are, and what our common solutions should be.”

A Shared Vision for Syria’s Future
Blinken also met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to talk about the long-term future of Syria. Both nations agreed on the importance of a peaceful, stable Syria, but the road to that goal is complicated. Syria remains like a fractured puzzle, with different pieces controlled by various groups and powers.

While no detailed plans were announced, both leaders emphasized the importance of working together to achieve their shared goals. Blinken acknowledged Turkey’s role in ensuring regional stability, calling the talks productive.

The Road Ahead
The challenges in Syria show just how delicate the situation is. Both the U.S. and Turkey want to prevent ISIS from returning, but their partnerships with different groups—Turkey with its rebels and the U.S. with the SDF—can make cooperation tricky. It’s a balancing act, much like trying to steady a seesaw with people pulling on both sides.

While the talks didn’t produce specific agreements, they highlighted a mutual understanding that ongoing collaboration is essential. Both sides agree that stability in Syria is vital, not just for the region but for the world.

Reflection
The situation in Syria recalls Jesus’ words in John 16:33: “In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” In a region marked by conflict and uncertainty, Christians are reminded of God’s sovereignty and the hope we find in Him. Let us pray for leaders to pursue peace and justice, for protection over vulnerable populations, and for God’s grace to heal all conflicted regions.