Turkey to maintain military presence in Syria, Iraq until borders are secured

• Defense Minister stated that Turkey's military posture will only be re-evaluated once regional and border security requirements are completely met

Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler stated that Turkey will maintain its military presence in Syria and Iraq, that any withdrawal or repositioning of troops will only occur after border security with both neighboring countries is fully guaranteed.

In a written response to questions from Agence France-Presse (AFP), Güler said that "we maintain our military presence in Iraq and Syria."

He noted that Turkish authorities will review the status and deployment of their forces once they are satisfied that all necessary conditions regarding regional and border security have been fulfilled.