Ankara: The Turkish Ministry of Defense affirmed that Ankara expects Israel to adhere to the peace plan adopted by the UN Security Council for the Gaza Strip.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the official Spokesperson for the Turkish Ministry of Defense, Zeki Aktrk, stated in a press briefing in Ankara: “The Turkish Ministry of Defense condemns the Israeli attacks carried out on January 31st in the Gaza Strip, which resulted in the deaths of numerous civilians at a time when a permanent ceasefire and the restoration of stability in Gaza are anticipated.”
Aktrk added that the Israeli attacks on Lebanon also hinder the establishment of stability and lasting peace. He emphasized that Israel must adhere to the peace plan adopted by the UN Security Council resolution, respect the ceasefire, and allow humanitarian aid to reach Gaza.
Regarding developments in Syria, the Turkish Defense Ministry spokesperson confirmed that Ankara is closely monitoring the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syrian state institutions, in accordance with the agreement signed on January 30th. Aktrk noted the importance of implementing the integration in a way that strengthens Syria’s unified structure and the principle of “one state, one army,” and he expects all planned activities to be carried out based on transparency and mutual trust.
In reference to the military framework agreement between Turkey and Egypt signed in Cairo on Wednesday, Aktrk highlighted that the aim of this agreement is to develop defense cooperation through the exchange of information and expertise in the areas of military cooperation specified in the agreement.
On the activities of the Turkish Air Force in Somalia, Aktrk stated that the Turkish Somali Task Force and Air Force Command deployed in Somalia continue to contribute to developing the Arab country’s counterterrorism capabilities by providing military support, training, and advisory activities. He added that the Air Force Command in Somalia has been strengthened with new appointments, and the newly appointed personnel will contribute to Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts.
The establishment of the Turkish Task Force Command in Somalia was decided upon under a framework agreement between the two countries in 2010, a military training cooperation agreement in 2012, a protocol for the Turkish Task Force in 2014, and a decision by the Turkish Council of Ministers in 2015. The Command officially commenced its operations on September 30, 2017.