From Turkey To Allies: Threat Is Very Serious

BRUSSELS - Turkey, which called on NATO to make Article 4 of the North Atlantic Treaty operational, gave the message to the NATO allies that, ''the threat is very serious. We cannot tolerate any other delay.''
There was a tense atmosphere in NATO Council after it was revealed this morning that the proposal package of the United States would not be approved because of oppositions of France, Germany and Belgium and as measures regarding Turkey's defense could not be started.
Turkish sources stated that the extraordinary Council meeting, which was held to examine the reasons of the opposition of the three countries, was the reason of Turkey's presenting a demand regarded with the fourth article. The sources said this initiative of Ankara was expected by the allies, and that it was not a surprise.
It was reported that the views, which the three countries defended, did not changed, and that those three countries said any possible decision that would be taken within the body of NATO could be a wrong message. It was also reported that the three countries expressed view that the U.N. process should be followed and weapons inspectors should be given some time.
Turkey, at this meeting, saw that some allies did not have necessary information about the seriousness of the situation and about the existing threat.
In the afternoon session of NATO Council, Turkey will tell the ambassadors of the ally countries how it considers the incident and why it wants to make Article 4 operational.
Ankara's message will be reflected as they could not tolerate any delay regarded with cautious planning and that the threat was very big and serious.
Discussion of the ''new element'' which occurred after Turkey's application, could continue till Wednesday in NATO Council. The ambassadors will request some time to inform their governments following today's meetings. It was reported that the Council could also convene on Tuesday, and that a concrete solution could be issued after regular weekly meeting that will take place on Wednesday.
The decision that should come out of NATO Council is expected to be ''giving directives to military flank to make plans regarding defense of ally Turkey that may face an attack in case of a possible Iraqi war.''