Turkish parliament approves extension of mandate for troop deployment in Iraq and Syria

The Turkish parliament on Sept. 23 approved the extension of a mandate permitting the government to deploy troops to Iraq and Syria for another year, just two days before the scheduled referendum to be held by the Iraqi Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). 

The motion was approved by a large majority in the assembly with deputies from the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) and Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) joining the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) while opposition People's Democratic Party (HDP) deputies voted it down. 

Speaking on behalf of the government during the extraordinary session, Defense Minister Nurettin Canikli said the referendum would always be null and void for Turkey.

Canikli stated that all options and methods were on the table regarding the referendum and Turkey will not hesitate to use them.

He said the referendum would bring very dangerous consequences and it may also lead to clashes even in global terms.

"Pulling out just a brick from a structure based on very sensitive and fragile balances will sow the seeds for new hatred, enmity and clashes," Canikli said.

The minister also added that the Syrian Kurdish YPG was pursuing a "political formation" along the Syrian border.
"It is impossible to avert those threats unless Turkey takes steps to remove those mistakes and threats actively on the field," Canikli said.

"Those risks that threaten our security are still active and there is a need for the authorizations demanded with this mandate," he added.

MHP deputy group chair Erkan Akçay said Turkey clearly stated with the mandate that it could face up to anything for the future of the country and it was not playing a game.

"With this...