Killing of al-Baghdadi a Turning Point, Says President Erdoğan

* Photo: AA

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Shortly after it was announced that ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed in an operation yesterday (October 27), President and ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) Chair Recep Tayyip Erdoğan shared a brief message on Twitter. Erdoğan said:

"The killing of Daesh's ringleader marks a turning point in our joint fight against terrorism. Turkey will continue to support anti-terror efforts — as it has done in the past.

"Having paid the dearest price in the fight against Daesh, PKK/YPG, and other terrorist organizations, Turkey welcomes this development.

"I am confident that a decisive struggle against terrorism, in line with the spirit of alliance, will bring peace to all of humanity."

The killing of Daesh’s ringleader marks a turning point in our joint fight against terrorism. Turkey will continue to support anti-terror efforts — as it has done in the past.

— Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) October 27, 2019

Statement by Ministry of National Defense

The Ministry of National Defense of Turkey also released a written statement regarding the killing of al-Baghdadi. "Before the US operation in Idlib yesterday, there was an exchange of information and coordination between the military authorities", stated the Ministry and added:

"Acting on the basis of the principles of interoperability and prevention of mutual interference with US elements, we provided warning to our forces and took timely measures to ensure operational and personnel security.

"Before and during the US operation, we acted within the spirit of Alliance and strategic partnership in the framework of the fight primarily against the DAESH and PKK/PYD/YPG terrorist organizations."

Trump: We flew very, very low

Announcing the killing of al-Baghdadi in a press conference yesterday, US President Donald Trump also responded to a question on Turkey's role in the operation. President Trump said:

"Turkey — we dealt with them. They know we were going in. We flew over some territory. They were terrific. No problem. They were not problem. You know, they could start shooting, and then we will take them out.

"But a lot of bad things can happen. Plus, it was a very secret mission. We flew very, very low and very, very fast." (DB/SD)