Iraq Calls for Withdrawal of Turkish Army and PKK from Its Territory

Iraq has expressed its desire for the withdrawal of both the Turkish army and the fighters of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) from its territory. This was emphasized by Iraq’s National Security Advisor, who requested the departure of Turkey’s military forces and the PKK, contingent on a peaceful agreement between them. “We do not want either the Turkish army or the PKK on our soil… Iraq wants the withdrawal of all forces,” stated Qassem al-Araji. He added that the Turkish forces are present due to the PKK, reminding that Ankara has repeatedly assured it has no territorial claims in Iraq. Araji also mentioned that the suspension of American aid complicates Baghdad’s efforts to repatriate thousands of Iraqis from Syria, including families of jihadists. “Iraq has a plan to transfer all Iraqis” from the Al Hol camp to another location in Iraq, he said. However, implementing this plan requires significant work and support from international organizations. “The sole and fundamental obstacle is the suspension of (American) aid to these organizations, and Iraq cannot solve the problem alone,” he underscored.