KRG referendum will ignite a war: Turkey DefMin

National Defense Minister Nurettin Canikli said on Tuesday in Ankara that the non-binding independence referendum scheduled for Sept. 25 by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) meant igniting a new war. KRG President Masoud Barzani has so far ignored the urges of Turkey and the international community, preparing for a step which may cause a regional crisis.

“All of our security forces, Turkish Armed Forces are on duty. We are following the recent developments like always,” Canikli said. He said that if a decision was to be made, if a step needed to be taken Turkey would resolutely follow through.

Stating that many U.S. and German companies do not sell spare parts used in defense products, Canikli said these companies have imposed an embargo or delay the sales of the necessary spare parts to Turkey.

“This is not a donation. We [Turkey] pay cash, but they are extremely generous when it comes to terrorist organizations. However, thank God, we have overcome this struggle with our own means, our own resources and domestic defense products, particularly in the recent years and we will continue to do so."

Turkey, preparing to severely respond to Barzani, has started to consider the options of an operation before the National Security Council meeting which will be held on Sept. 22. It has been emphasized that all kinds of options, including military measures, are on the table, with the military drills that have been conducted on the Habur border between Turkey and Iraq.

Turkey might implement trade restrictions at the Habur border gate, and increase audits of Barzani’s companies in Turkey, according to reports. Turkey wants the KRG to “call off” not “suspend” the referendum that includes the occupation of Kirkuk. To this end, definitive measures which will be valid for today and for the future are on the table.