Iraq expressed its formal protest against Turkey on Tuesday for reportedly bombing an airport in the northern city of Sulaymaniyah. The incident resulted in Iraq handing an official note of protest to the Turkish ambassador in the country, stressing its right to end such breaches.
In the wake of the Turkish airstrike on the Sulaymaniyah province airport, Iraq’s presidential office declared its decision to summon the Turkish ambassador. The objective was clear – to deliver a message of protest directed at Turkey’s top leadership.
The statement from the Iraqi presidency, reviewed by “Elaph”, asserted that systematic military attacks on Iraqi territories, especially in the Kurdistan region, have escalated. These attacks have been occurring without any legitimate military or security justification. The aggression has affected innocent civilians, military bases, and security establishments alike.
“We’ve consistently clarified to the relevant Turkish authorities our willingness to sit with the concerned security entities to address the gaps which Turkey perceives as infiltration points, threatening its security,” the statement read. However, the calls for cooperation have yet to see any genuine response.
The presidency emphasized that launching continuous military attacks on cities, civilians, and military personnel is a stark violation of international law. The utilization of weaponry, particularly drones that are typically reserved for full-fledged wars, as a regular mode of Turkish aggression on Iraqi soil, poses significant threats to the peace and stability that Iraq has been striving for since 2003.
Pointing out the sacrifices Iraq made in the battle against terrorist organizations, the statement highlighted the country’s rigorous fight against ISIS. Iraq didn’t only defend its land but also protected neighboring countries from potential ISIS advances. “With all these sacrifices, for our territories to be systematically attacked daily indicates mal-intent and an absence of a desire for secure, stable relations,” the Iraqi presidency asserted.
Ending the statement, the presidency announced its immediate steps: “Today, we have initiated a summoning of relevant Iraqi security ministries to obtain a detailed report. We will also conduct intensive communications with the international community. Furthermore, the Turkish ambassador in Baghdad will be handed a protest letter directed at the Turkish presidency.” They urge an immediate cessation of these strikes.
