Turkey warns against terror group’s propaganda

By Mumin Altas

ANKARA (AA) - Turkish deputy prime minister on Sunday warned of propaganda launched by terrorists against Turkey’s military operation in Syria.

"We must be vigilant and careful about the provocations, incitement, perception operations, lies and defamation during the Operation Olive Branch,” Bekir Bozdag wrote on his Twitter account.

“We should not respect any statements or reports which are not confirmed by the official authorities and statements," Bozdag added.

He also warned against the posts and images on social media being circulated by the terrorists and said the citizens “should not, knowingly or unknowingly, help spreading them.”

On Jan. 20, Turkey launched Operation Olive Branch to remove PYD/PKK and Daesh terrorists from Afrin, northwestern Syria.

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 terrorist oppression and cruelty.

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.

Afrin has been a major hideout for the PYD/PKK since July 2012 when the Assad regime in Syria left the city to the terror group without a fight.