Peshmerga Commander: We don't want Turkey in Mosul operation

Kirkuk Peshmerga Commander said the Iraqi central government and coalition forces do not want Turkey's involvement in the Mosul operation, adding: “If Turkey partakes in this operation, I guess this could end up in clashes with Iraqi forces.”

Kirkuk Peshmerga Commander Wıstan Resul spoke to ANF about the operation to liberate Mosul which is expected to start soon.

Resul stated that: “Peshmerga forces will advance from east of Mosul. Their progress continues and they have taken control over a large part of this line. However, peshmerga forces will not enter the city centre of Mosul. We are waiting for the beginning of the operation which is being determined by the coalition forces and the Iraqi central government.”

Resul remarked that they expect the battle to last long and be severe, saying: “In consideration of the preparations being made, I guess a major battle could develop in Mosul city centre and attacks with multiple battle methods could take place, especially on the other side of the river.”

Resul pointed out that they, the Iraqi central government and coalition forces do not want Turkey's involvement in the Mosul operation, adding: “If Turkey partakes in this operation, I guess this could end up in clashes with Iraqi forces.”

Kirkuk Peshmerga Commander Wıstan Resul also spoke about the Hawija operation which -he said- they were running in coordination with the Iraqi central government.

“Operational forces have taken up their positions and we have already determined how they will move. We will make a statement once the time for the operation comes”, he added.