NATO was informed by the Turkish authorities about the operation in Syria, and expects from Ankara restrained and proportionate actions in order to avoid destabilizing the situation in the region, said Secretary General of the alliance Jens Stoltenberg on Wednesday.
“Our Turkish ally has a legitimate security concern. NATO was informed by the Turkish authorities about the operation in northern Syria. It is important to avoid actions that could further destabilize the region, lead to an escalation of tension, lead to great human suffering”, – Stoltenberg said in Rome. His speech was broadcast by the press service of the alliance.
“I hope that Turkey will act with restraint and ensure that any actions it takes in northern Syria are proportionate and balanced. We must not undermine the achievements made in the fight against our common enemy – ISIS”, – said Stoltenberg.
He also said that “he will discuss this issue with President Erdogan on Friday in Istanbul”.
Erdogan previously announced the launch of Operation Source of Peace in northern Syria against the Kurdistan Workers Party and ISIS. Against this background, the Syrian Kurds called on the United States and the coalition to introduce a no-fly zone in the north-east of the SAR to ensure their security.