According to Anadolu Agency, Yerlikaya stated during a meeting at the headquarters of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) in Kilis province that since 2016, the total number of returnees has reached 1,290,000. He emphasized that his country continues to implement return procedures with the utmost caution.

The Turkish Interior Ministry specified that more than 2,540,000 Syrians remain in Turkiye under temporary protection.

The repatriation process, overseen by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), includes registration, biometric verification, and transportation planning before the transfer to border crossings.

According to UNHCR data, nearly two million internally and externally displaced Syrians have returned to their areas of origin since December 2024.

UNHCR warned, however, that returnees face difficult conditions due to the deterioration of basic services, a lack of infrastructure, and limited access to healthcare, education, and clean water.

The agency reiterated the urgent need for a coordinated international response that contributes to local reconstruction, guarantees protection and livelihoods, and ensures safe, dignified, and sustainable returns.

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