Main opposition MP calls for unity on Afrin operation

By Muhammet Emin Avundukluoglu

ANKARA (AA) - The main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) lawmaker on Thursday called for unity on Operation Olive Branch.

"Let us keep the operation out of daily and domestic politics, because it is crucial for Turkish nation's security," said Dursun Cicek, speaking to reporters outside the parliament.

"Let us stay united on the operation, exactly like we did during the Cyprus Peace Operation," said Cicek, a lawmaker from Istanbul province.

On Jan. 20, Turkey launched Operation Olive Branch to clear YPG/PKK-Daesh terrorists from Afrin.

According to the Turkish General Staff, the operation aims to establish security and stability along Turkey’s borders and the region as well as protect Syrians from oppression and cruelty of terrorists.

The operation is being carried out under the framework of Turkey's rights based on international law, UN Security Council resolutions, its self-defense rights under the UN charter, and respect for Syria's territorial integrity, it said.

The military also said only terror targets were being destroyed and "utmost care" was being taken to not harm any civilian.