Turkish forces to use varied tactics to combat terrorism in Iraq

Security sources have indicated that the upcoming operations against the terrorist organization will be unconventional, unpredictable and fast-paced

While Türkiye’s Operation Claw-Lock proceeds in northern Iraq, the National Defense Ministry confirmed a recent border meeting served as a coordination effort. Sources revealed the discussions focused on ensuring civilian safety within the operation zones.

The meeting, led by 2nd Army Commander Lieutenant General Metin Tokel, discussed the well-being of civilians within the operational zones.

Pointing out that the operations carried out by the Turkish Armed Forces in Iraq are very close to residential areas, the sources said, “Recently, relations with Iraq have gained momentum. Our main goal is the fight against terrorism. The meeting of Turkish commanders across the border was held within the borders of the Claw-Lock operation zone.

During the meeting with Iraqi officials, the security of the Iraq-Türkiye borderline and measures to increase the security of Iraqi citizens were discussed. The areas where operations are carried out are very close to civilian settlements. A coordination meeting was held to prevent harm to civilian citizens. Such cooperation and coordination meetings will continue in the coming period.” 

Securing the borders 

Security sources pointed out that the agenda of the Security Summit held in Iraq with the participation of National Defense Minister Yasar Guler, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, and Head of National Intelligence Organization (MIT) Ibrahim Kalin included military cooperation, joint fight against terrorism and border security.

 Last December, a Security Summit was held in Ankara with Iraqi officials. During these talks, security and military cooperation issues were prioritized, and a common understanding of the fight against terrorism was discussed. During the meeting in Ankara, it was emphasized that the terrorist organization PKK is a common threat to both countries. In this summit, border security and energy issues were discussed in the fight against terrorism. Security sources also stated that the operations against PKK in the operation zones will be unpredictable, unique, fast and paced, unlike the previous ones. 

Amount paid for F-35 

Commenting on Türkiye’s return to the F-35 program, the sources said, “For the moment, there is no change in the position of both countries on the F-35. We think we can get back the money we paid for the F-35. Negotiations are also ongoing on this issue. At this stage, we need to focus on KAAN.” 

Ministry sources stated that initiatives for the purchase of Eurofighter jets are continuing and said, “The UK and German authorities are continuing negotiations on this issue. We expect our allies to take decisions in line with the spirit of the alliance and the common security perspective. We believe that a positive result will be achieved.” 

Sources from the defense ministry stated that the Confidence Building Measures Meeting with Greece will be held in April. Stating that Greece and Türkiye are in a period of mutual focus on a positive agenda, the sources noted that establishing an honest and constructive relationship with a solution-oriented approach would benefit both countries. 

Source: Newsroom