Turkish opposition head hits out at Iraqi Kurdish vote

The upcoming Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) referendum could be reason for war, Nationalist Movement Party (MHP) leader Devlet Bahçeli said on Thursday.

“This referendum is completely against Turkmens and Turkey. This referendum could be the reason for a war with Turkey if necessary. If Ankara is to be safe and Diyarbakır is to be peaceful, then Kerkuk and Mosul must be in unity,” Bahçeli said.

“Barzani’s referendum preparations, which covers Turkmen cities, should be opposed. It should be known that this referendum is a rehearsal for Kurdistan. Wherever a terrorist organization is causing division, it should be annihilated,” he continued.

The opposition leader commented on U.S. support of the PKK terrorist organization.

“The U.S. is sending hundreds of trucks filled with weapons and ammunition to the PKK and PYD as if it was giving out gifts. The PKK/PYD weapons and training support that the U.S. is providing is not befitting of allies,” Bahçeli said.

The PKK is listed as a terrorist organization by Turkey, the European Union and the United States.

The PKK has been conducting armed violence in the southeastern part of Turkey since 1984. More than 40,000 people, mostly civilians, have been killed in the three-decade long conflict.

He spoke about regional developments that targeted Turkey.

“Negotiations in the northern part of Syria and Iraq are mainly based on Turkey. Turkey is the focus. All eyes are on Turkey, and forces are working to create a Turkey problem,” Bahçeli said.

“I would like to express my condolences to Spain, and once again condemn terrorism. Terrorist organizations are employing new methods. Many people lost their lives in France’s Nice, Germany’s Berlin and Britain’s London in attacks,” he said.

The MHP leader commented on the global fight against the Fetullah Terrorist Organization (FETÖ).

“FETÖ is a barbaric cult that is the enemy of Turkey and Islam. A common stance, a justice institution, evidence and a tremendous depth of vision are indispensable for the abolishment of this treacherous organization,” Bahçeli said.

A total of 249 people were martyred and more than 2,100 injured in the coup attempt perpetrated by FETÖ. The failed coup was organized by followers of U.S.-based Fetullah Gülen, who has pursued a long-running campaign to overthrow the government through supporters within the Turkish state, particularly the military, police and judiciary.

“FETÖ is in Germany. The PKK is throwing javelins from Germany. Germany has become a hotbed of FETÖ terrorists. Despite the fact that Turkey presented Germany with 4,500 files of evidence regarding [FETÖ] terrorists, there still has been no response,” said Bahçeli.