In a statement delivered on Wednesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Ankara has been fighting against “terrorism” for over 40 years. During this period, “terrorist organizations” have carried out numerous attacks against Turkey. The remarks came during a military graduation ceremony at Turkey’s National Defense University.
Razing Terrorist Hideouts
“We have demolished the hideouts and dens of terrorists in Northern Syria, right over their heads. We have also done the same in Northern Iraq, and we will continue to demolish them and hit them hard,” Erdogan said. The Turkish president emphasized the ongoing military operations in both countries aimed at neutralizing security threats against Turkey.
Establishing a Safe Zone
President Erdogan also highlighted the “safe zone” that Turkey has established in Northern Syria. According to him, this area not only provides security for Turkey’s borders but also offers a conducive environment for the safe and voluntary return of Syrian refugees.
Ongoing Operations in Northern Iraq
“We will ensure security in regions of Northern Iraq and rid those areas of terrorist organizations, just as we have done in Northern Syria,” Erdogan added. The operations aim to eliminate various terrorist groups that Turkey considers to be threats to its national security.
Commitment to Combating Terrorism
Turkey continues to affirm its commitment to combating terrorism in Syria and dismisses Damascus’s conditions for the withdrawal of Turkish forces from Syrian soil to proceed with Turkey-Syria reconciliation talks.
Turkey has been involved in military operations in Syria and Iraq for several years, focusing on combating various groups it labels as terrorists. These include the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) and other organizations that Ankara considers to be threats to its national security. Turkey’s military presence in these regions has been a topic of international debate and has affected its relationships with other countries, including Syria and Iraq. With these latest remarks from President Erdogan, Turkey solidifies its stance on the ongoing conflict and its commitment to ensuring national security.
