The bitter row between Turkey and Iraq continues as President Recep Tayyip Erdogan insists that “it is out of the question” for Turkish troops to stay out of the onslaught in Mosul.
“We will be in the operation and we will be at the table,” Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said in a televised speech today. “Our brothers are there and our relatives are there. It is out of the question that we are not involved.”
Erdogan is determined to see that operations are run properly, ensure that sectarian clashes are avoided and refugee numbers are kept to a minimal, he said.
He has persistently raised concerns over the possible sectarian clashes as large numbers of Shia militia groups are also taking part in the operation. During the build up to the Mosul offensive, Erdogan maintained that Turkey’s efforts in Iraq are intended to prevent any possible demographic change in the region.
Despite strong disagreements between Baghdad and Ankara, Turkey is trying to make amends with Iraq, as reports emerged today that a diplomatic delegation has been sent by Erdogan to Baghdad to discuss the offensive.
Where is Mosul?
Mosul is the second biggest city in Iraq. It is located in the north of the country.
What is happening there?
Since June 2014 it has been under the control of Daesh.
What’s happening now?
Iraqi and Kurdish forces, backed by an international coalition which is led by the US, are battling to recapture the city from Daesh.