US DoD: We oppose Turkish military action in Syria and Iraq
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Washington notes its disapproval of the Turkish air campaign in Syria and Iraq.
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US DoD and State Department note this disapproval of Turkey's activities in Iraq and Syria
In response to the recent round of Turkish airstrikes in northern Syria and Iraq, the spokeperson for the US Department of Defense stated that the US continues to disapprove of any military intervention that would "destabilize Syria or violate Iraq's sovereignty" through military engagements that are not coordinated with the Iraqi government.
It is of note that the US currently occupies oil-rich regions in Syria in violation of international law.
The persistent war against ISIS and its prevention from reemerging are among the key objectives that are jeopardized by Turkey's activities, the Pentagon spokesperson continued.
Read more: The Cradle: Routes of US tankers stealing Syrian oil unveiled
For its part, the US State Department expressed in a statement its condolences for the loss of civilian lives in Syria and Turkey. On the one hand, the State Department urged "de-escalation in Syria to protect civilian lives and support the common goal of defeating ISIS," while on the other hand, opposed any military action uncoordinated in Iraq that "violates Iraq's sovereignty."
French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna had expressed her "concern" about the airstrikes launched by Turkey against Kurdish sites in Syria and Iraq, calling on Ankara to show "restraint."
In turn, the German government called on Turkey to respond in a "symmetrical" manner to the attacks targeting it.
Syria operation: Erdogan
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that operations in Northern Syria, Iraq are not limited to an air campaign, adding that discussions will be held to decide on a possible land operation using ground forces.
The President further noted that the size of the ground force that will partake in the military operation in northern Syria and Iraq will be specified by the armed forces later.
As for the air campaign held at the break of dawn on Monday, Erdogan indicated that "70 fighter jets took part in the successful military operation in northern Iraq and Syria," adding that the "operation against terrorist groups is still ongoing."
Read more: Turkish airstrikes pave way for land operation in northern Syria, Iraq
