The Turkish parliament today (Tuesday) approved the extension of the military presence in Syria and Iraq for another two years.
The proposal was approved by a large majority, after President Erdogan's coalition of 336 MPs from the Justice and Development Party (AKP) and the National Movement Party (MHP) also joined 36 members of the Good Party (İYİ) - which created a large majority in the 600-member parliament.
The proposal, which was opposed by the Republican People's Party (CHP) and the Pro-Kurdish People's Democratic Party (HDP), authorizes the Erdogan government to continue "cross-border" activities in northern Syria and northern Iraq until October 30, 2023. That is, until after the upcoming general election. To take place on June 18, 2023. "The presence of the Kurdish underground and ISIS in Iraq poses a direct threat to regional peace and stability, as well as the security of our country," the proposal said.
"In Syria, Turkey has taken steps that are in line with Turkey's national security interests to achieve peace and stability."
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan Photo: Reuters
The Turkish military presence in Syria, and all the more so its extension, is another source of the lack of regional agreements between Tehran and Ankara.
After the heated atmosphere between Turkey and Iran, against the backdrop of Tehran's threats against Baku, calmed down - a direct confrontation between the many Turkish and pro-Turkish forces and the many Iranian and pro-Iranian forces could ignite a real military confrontation.
In fact, the Iranian presence in Syria and the fear of its effects are a cause for concern in Turkey, just as it is not received equally in Israel.
Meanwhile, Greece today blamed Turkey for the drowning of four immigrant children in the Aegean Sea.
"Tragically, despite our Coast Guard efforts, four children - all between the ages of three and 14 - died, one was missing, and 22 others were rescued ashore," said Greek Immigration Minister Notis Mitrachi.
"The Turkish authority must do more to prevent the exploitation of criminal gangs by the Turkish authorities. These journeys were not supposed to take place."