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BEIRUT (Reuters) – The main Syrian jihadist group said on Sunday that it would abide by the terms of a Russian-Turkish agreement aimed at preventing a Syrian government offensive on Idlib, held by rebels, the day before. A critical delay.
Tahrir al-Sham, a jihadist alliance led by former al-Qaida affiliate formerly known as Front Nusra, said it took the position after taking the time to "consult."
Although he did not say explicitly that he would respect the agreement, he indicated that he would seek to ensure the safety of the people in the area that he or she was in. it controls and appreciates the efforts made to protect this area, an apparent reference to Turkey.
"We appreciate the efforts of all those who struggle – at home and abroad – to protect the liberated area and prevent its invasion and the massacres it perpetuates," Tahrir al-Sham said in his statement. .
"But we warn simultaneously against the deception of the Russian occupier or believe in his intentions," he added. The group also said that he "would not forget" foreign fighters come to help him.
The other main rebel faction of Idlib, an alliance of groups known as the National Liberation Front and aligned with Turkey, has already expressed support for the deal.
The agreement establishes a deep demilitarized zone of 15 to 20 km on rebel territory, which must be evacuated from all heavy weapons and all jihadist groups no later than Monday, October 15.
Turkey is trying to convince Tahrir al-Sham to comply with the agreement it has reached with the Syrian government's main ally, Russia, to avoid an assault which, he feared, would send a new wave refugees to its border.
However, Tahrir al-Sham also said in his statement, published through his social media, that he would not end his jihad or give his weapons.
Idlib and adjacent areas are the last stronghold of the rebels who rebelled against President Bashar al-Assad in 2011. It is also home to about 3 million people, more than half of whom have already been displaced at least once during the war. .
Last week, Turkey declared that the demilitarized zone had been created and Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that the zone was effective and that no large-scale military action was planned in Idlib.
Russian and Turkish troops will eventually patrol the area, in accordance with their agreement.
Reportage of Angus McDowall; edited by David Stamp and Sandra Maler
