Position estimation. Geostrategic Studies Team
The mentality of the Syrian mercenary groups working with the Turkish occupation in areas controlled by Turkey reflects various political, social, and economic complexities. These groups, which are ideologically and ethnically diverse, cannot be defined by a single framework, but rather are influenced by a set of internal and external factors. A comprehensive analysis of their mentality requires consideration of the motivations, political environment, social context, and goals guiding them.
Economic and Political Motivations
One of the most prominent factors driving individuals in these groups to fight is economic motivation. Many of these individuals live under difficult conditions due to the ongoing Syrian war since 2011, which has destroyed infrastructure and created a severe economic crisis. In this context, the salaries and financial rewards provided by Turkey or the entities supporting these groups serve as a primary attraction. Given the lack of job opportunities and the collapse of the economic system, many individuals see joining armed groups as a means to secure a stable income.
Alongside economic motivations, there are political motivations. Some of these groups were part of the factions opposing the Syrian regime and saw Turkish support as an opportunity to bolster their military and political strength. Turkey has exploited this situation to recruit these factions within the framework of its strategies to achieve its interests in Syria.
Dependence on Turkey
Since the start of the Syrian war, Turkey has sought to expand its influence in northern Syria, either through direct military operations or by supporting armed groups. These mercenary groups represent tools for Turkey in executing its political and military strategies. Consequently, some members of these groups develop a mentality of dependency and loyalty to Turkish interests. Of course, this loyalty is not necessarily ideological but may be based on financial interests or due to regional balances that forced these factions into alliances with Turkey.
On the other hand, Turkey leverages the ideological dimension of some factions that belong to extremist Islamic groups, such as factions stemming from Jabhat al-Nusra or groups that were part of Islamist coalitions. These individuals may see Turkey as both a religious and political ally, despite significant ideological contradictions.
Ethnic and Sectarian Divisions
A portion of these groups' mentality is also influenced by the ethnic and sectarian conflicts in Syria. Some factions working with Turkey represent Sunni groups that see Turkey as a natural ally against Kurdish factions like the Syrian Democratic Forces. Additionally, the mentality of these factions reflects an existential struggle for some, viewing Turkish control in northern Syria as an opportunity to reshape the demographic map of those areas, amid competition with Kurdish forces over influence and land.
Ideological Dimension
Ideology plays a significant role in shaping the mentality of these groups. Some factions with extreme Islamist leanings, such as Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (formerly known as Jabhat al-Nusra), ideologically overlap with Turkish policies regarding fighting the Syrian regime or Kurdish factions. This ideological convergence strengthens cooperation between the two parties. However, ideological loyalties are not always fixed and can shift based on political developments and changing interests.
Internal Divisions and Power Struggles
Despite their association with Turkey, the mentality of these mercenary factions is characterized by internal conflicts and competition for power and influence. Some of these groups operate under joint banners, but in reality, they compete over resources, financial gains, and territorial control. These divisions further complicate the overall mentality of the groups, as individuals within the same faction may have differing motivations, with some being more loyal to money or power than ideology.
Turkish Exploitation of Identity and Affiliation Issues
Through its support for these groups, Turkey seeks to exploit identity issues among different factions. It promotes a narrative of protecting Sunni Arabs against Kurdish forces, which it views as a threat to its national interests, particularly with the rise of separatist tendencies among Kurds in Syria. In this way, Turkey manipulates ethnic and national sensitivities to justify its intervention and support for these factions.
Readiness for Change and Betrayal
One of the key characteristics of these groups’ mentality is their flexibility and quick adaptation to political changes. Many of the mercenary groups in Syria have shown a willingness to change their loyalties and alliances based on political or battlefield developments. This reflects a pragmatic mentality focused on immediate gains, regardless of principles or long-term goals. This can be seen in the changing positions of some factions toward major powers involved in the Syrian conflict.
International Exploitation of the Syrian Conflict
The mentality of mercenaries working with Turkey cannot be understood without considering other external influences. Turkey is not the only player exploiting these factions. The Syrian conflict has become a battleground for competing major powers, and each international or regional power seeks to use armed factions to achieve its own objectives. This dynamic creates multifaceted mercenary mentalities, where some factions receive support from multiple actors depending on the needs of the moment.
Conclusion:
The mentality of Syrian mercenary groups working with the Turkish occupation is a blend of economic, ideological, and power struggles, influenced by the complex environment of the Syrian conflict. This mentality is marked by opportunistic dependence on Turkey, internal division, and readiness to shift loyalties. Turkey exploits these groups to advance its regional interests, benefiting from ethnic and sectarian divisions and Syria’s dire economic conditions.
