ISTANBUL - "If we decide on a cross-border operation, we do not have patience to lose more time. Whatever the cost is, it will be met," Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Friday.
Replying to questions of journalists, Prime Minister Erdogan said, "if we decide on a cross-border operation, we do not have patience to lose more time. In order to take such a step instantly, we need to be ready. Its frame has already been set in the motion. Further details will be determined through consultations with the General Staff and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs."
"Turkey lost 30 people in the acts of terror in the last two weeks. It is impossible for us to bear it forever. If there are terrorists sheltering and receiving training in a neighboring country and if that country does not do anything then we should do something," he said.
Upon a question about possible international criticisms about such a cross-border operation, Erdogan told reporters, "after going down this route, its cost has already been calculated. Whatever the cost is, it will be met. We will discuss it in detail without making a decision. There could be pros and cons of such a decision but what is important is our country's interests. We do not have any plans or ideas of sanction regarding the Iraqi government. Since the very beginning, we have been advocating that Iraq's territorial integrity and political unity should be protected."
"As you know, we signed an agreement with Iraq about the fight against terrorism. Since the Iraqi parliament has not ratified it yet, the agreement does not have any validity," he said.
Upon another question, Prime Minister Erdogan said that withdrawal of the Turkish Ambassador in Washington D.C. is out of question, adding, "Turkish Ambassador Nabi Sensoy could be recalled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for consultations."