The aim of the Operation Euphrates Shield is clear. The operation will continue until such time when the terrorist elements based in Syria cannot threaten Turkish citizens any more. The operation is being carried out within our right of self-defense and with due respect to the territorial integrity of Syria.

Turkey awaits the US, its ally, to fulfil right away its commitment given to Turkey before the operation in Manbij city – that began in June and completed by cleaning all DEASH elements therein - stipulating that no PYD/YPG element would remain in west of Euphrates River after the Manbij operation has been completed.

Upon the statements by US officials with regard to the scope and objectives of the Operation Euphrates Shield, the necessary demarche with the US Ambassador in Ankara has been made at a high level and we emphasized that such statements are not in conformity with the code among allies and cannot be acceptable in any way.