ANKARA Ñ The leader of Turkey's new Islamic-oriented government is said to have approved a U.S. request for military
bases as part of preparations to launch a war against Iraq.
Turkish officials said the government of Prime Minister Abdullah Gul has
decided to formally grant the U.S. request for six air bases and additional ports, although his decision may have to be ratified by parliament.
The U.S. military presence in southern Turkey and northern Iraq would number
up to 90,000 soldiers and military
personnel and could last for up to five years.
The government, which discussed the issue on late Wednesday, has not
officially relayed the decision to the United States, officials said. They
said this will probably take place over the weekend, Middle East Newsline reported.
"Not only Turkey but no country in the region can stay aloof for Iraq,"
Gul said. "We have to be prepared in the face of all possible scenarios and
developments that would concern us. Our government's preparations should be
considered in this respect."
On Thursday, Turkey's Higher Military Council is scheduled to brief Gul
regarding Ankara's preparations for war. The council is headed by Chief of
Staff Gen. Hilmi Ozkuk and Defense Minister Vecdi Gonul.
Turkey's National Security Council will also discuss the Iraq issue and
the U.S. military request. The council, chaired by President Ahmet Sezer,
will meet on Friday.
Officials said the Bush administration has demanded that Ankara issue a
quick reply to the U.S. request. They said the military recommended that
Ankara approve the request and Gul, after some hesitation, agreed.
Any decision announced by Gul might require ratification by Turkey's
parliament. Officials said the prime minister could turn to parliament after
Turkey agrees to participate in a war against Baghdad.
"It would be wrong for such a decision to be taken by only politicians
or the Cabinet," Turkish parliamentary speaker Bulent Arinc said. "These
issues have to be debated in parliament. The prime minister must definitely
inform parliament. If necessary Ñ it is possible to hold a debate in
secret."
