As world leaders urge restraint, Erdogan is on a warpath. The Turkish President has decided to jump into the dispute between Armenia and Azerbaijan. What explains the Turkish president's move that risks Putin's wrath? WION's Palki Sharma explains.

Gravitas: Armenia - Azerbaijan clash: Erdogan wades into the dispute

Armenia and Azerbaijan rejected international calls for peace talks and&nbsp;negotiations as fierce clashes over the disputed region of Nagorny-Karabakh spilled over into a fourth day on Wednesday.

Armenian and Azerbaijani forces are engaged in the heaviest fighting in years over Karabakh, an ethnic Armenian province that broke away from Azerbaijan in the 1990s during the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The long-simmering conflict erupted on Sunday with the two sides trading heavy fire and blaming each other for the outbreak of violence. There has been no let-up in the fighting since the weekend, with both sides reporting new clashes on Wednesday. Officials in both countries have made claims of huge losses for the other side, but these have not been possible to verify.&nbsp;

Nearly 100 people are confirmed to have died in the flare-up and both sides are claiming to have inflicted heavy losses on opposing forces.

There has been increasing international pressure for a ceasefire, as fears grow that the conflict could escalate into a devastating all-out war and draw in regional powers like Turkey and Russia. But Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Wednesday that talks with Azerbaijan were not yet on the table.

Russia has repeatedly called for an end to the fighting and offered to help with negotiations.

Defence officials in Yerevan on Wednesday accused Turkish jets of performing "provocative flights" along their shared border and of violating Armenia airspace, a day after Yerevan said a Turkish jet had downed one of its warplanes.

Yerevan is claiming that Turkey, a longstanding ally of Azerbaijan, is providing direct military support, including mercenaries, for Baku.&nbsp;It said on Tuesday that a Turkish F-16 flying in support of Baku's forces had downed an Armenian SU-25 warplane, but Ankara and Baku denied the claim.

"It isn't very appropriate to speak of a summit between Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia at a time of intensive hostilities," Pashinyan said.&nbsp;

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also rejected negotiations during an interview with Russian TV on Tuesday.

Azerbaijan has released no information on its military casualties, while the Armenian side has registered 81 deaths. A total of 17 civilians have been reported dead.

Azerbaijan's defence ministry said its troops had "destroyed 130 tanks, 200 artillery units, 25 anti-aircraft units, five ammunition depots, 50 anti-tank units, 55 military vehicles". It said Karabakh's separatist forces had "shelled the city of Terter, targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure."

Karabakh's defence ministry, for its part, said Azerbaijani forces "continued artillery shelling" of separatist positions along the frontline on Wednesday morning.

The two sides have accused each other of targeting civilian areas, including in areas away from Karabakh.

Armenia and Karabakh declared martial law and military mobilisation Sunday, while Azerbaijan imposed military rule and a curfew in large cities.

(with inputs)

Armenia and Azerbaijan rejected international calls for peace talks and negotiations as fierce clashes over the disputed region of Nagorny-Karabakh spilled over into a fourth day on Wednesday.

Armenia and Azerbaijan rejected international calls for peace talks and negotiations as fierce clashes over the disputed region of Nagorny-Karabakh spilled over into a fourth day on Wednesday. Armenian and Azerbaijani forces are engaged in the heaviest fighting in years over Karabakh, an ethnic Armenian province that broke away from Azerbaijan in the 1990s during the collapse of the Soviet Union. The long-simmering conflict erupted on Sunday with the two sides trading heavy fire and blaming each other for the outbreak of violence. There has been no let-up in the fighting since the weekend, with both sides reporting new clashes on Wednesday. Officials in both countries have made claims of huge losses for the other side, but these have not been possible to verify. Nearly 100 people are confirmed to have died in the flare-up and both sides are claiming to have inflicted heavy losses on opposing forces. There has been increasing international pressure for a ceasefire, as fears grow that the conflict could escalate into a devastating all-out war and draw in regional powers like Turkey and Russia. But Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said Wednesday that talks with Azerbaijan were not yet on the table. Russia has repeatedly called for an end to the fighting and offered to help with negotiations. Defence officials in Yerevan on Wednesday accused Turkish jets of performing "provocative flights" along their shared border and of violating Armenia airspace, a day after Yerevan said a Turkish jet had downed one of its warplanes. Yerevan is claiming that Turkey, a longstanding ally of Azerbaijan, is providing direct military support, including mercenaries, for Baku. It said on Tuesday that a Turkish F-16 flying in support of Baku's forces had downed an Armenian SU-25 warplane, but Ankara and Baku denied the claim. "It isn't very appropriate to speak of a summit between Armenia, Azerbaijan and Russia at a time of intensive hostilities," Pashinyan said. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also rejected negotiations during an interview with Russian TV on Tuesday. Azerbaijan has released no information on its military casualties, while the Armenian side has registered 81 deaths. A total of 17 civilians have been reported dead. Azerbaijan's defence ministry said its troops had "destroyed 130 tanks, 200 artillery units, 25 anti-aircraft units, five ammunition depots, 50 anti-tank units, 55 military vehicles". It said Karabakh's separatist forces had "shelled the city of Terter, targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure." Karabakh's defence ministry, for its part, said Azerbaijani forces "continued artillery shelling" of separatist positions along the frontline on Wednesday morning. The two sides have accused each other of targeting civilian areas, including in areas away from Karabakh. Armenia and Karabakh declared martial law and military mobilisation Sunday, while Azerbaijan imposed military rule and a curfew in large cities. (with inputs)

Armenia and Azerbaijan reject talks as clashes continue for fourth day

Turkish prosecutors&nbsp;on Monday indicted&nbsp;six more Saudi&nbsp;nationals as suspects&nbsp;in connection with the 2018 murder of Saudi journalist&nbsp;Jamal&nbsp;Khashoggi&nbsp;in Istanbul.

Khashoggi, a critic of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was last seen at the Saudi consulate on October&nbsp;2, 2018, where he had gone to obtain documents for his impending wedding.

Turkish officials believe his body was dismembered and removed from the building, while his remains have not been found.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudis-verdict-on-khashoggis-case-fell-short-of-meeting-expectations-turkey-325854">'Saudi's verdict on Khashoggi's case fell short of meeting expectations': Turkey</a>

Twenty Saudi nationals are already on trial in an Istanbul court for&nbsp;Khashoggi's killing. Local media&nbsp;said the indictment against the six suspects, including two consulate workers and four other Saudi nationals, was sent to the court to be combined with the main case.

Two of the suspects, a vice consul and an attache, were facing life jail sentences for premeditated murder with monstrous intent, the broadcaster said.

The four others had arrived in Istanbul on October&nbsp;10-11, 2018, more than a week after the killing, were charged with destroying, concealing or tampering with evidence, which carries a sentence of up to five years in jail.

The Istanbul prosecutor's office did not immediately provide comment on the media reports.

A Saudi court this month jailed eight people for between seven and 20 years for the murder, four months after&nbsp;Khashoggi's family forgave his killers and enabled earlier death sentences to be set aside.

Turkish prosecutors on Monday indicted six more Saudi nationals as suspects in connection with the 2018 murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul. Khashoggi, a critic of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was last seen at the Saudi consulate on October 2, 2018, where he had gone to obtain documents for his impending wedding.

Turkish prosecutors on Monday indicted six more Saudi nationals as suspects in connection with the 2018 murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul. Khashoggi, a critic of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was last seen at the Saudi consulate on October 2, 2018, where he had gone to obtain documents for his impending wedding. Turkish officials believe his body was dismembered and removed from the building, while his remains have not been found. Also read: 'Saudi's verdict on Khashoggi's case fell short of meeting expectations': Turkey Twenty Saudi nationals are already on trial in an Istanbul court for Khashoggi's killing. Local media said the indictment against the six suspects, including two consulate workers and four other Saudi nationals, was sent to the court to be combined with the main case. Two of the suspects, a vice consul and an attache, were facing life jail sentences for premeditated murder with monstrous intent, the broadcaster said. The four others had arrived in Istanbul on October 10-11, 2018, more than a week after the killing, were charged with destroying, concealing or tampering with evidence, which carries a sentence of up to five years in jail. The Istanbul prosecutor's office did not immediately provide comment on the media reports. A Saudi court this month jailed eight people for between seven and 20 years for the murder, four months after Khashoggi's family forgave his killers and enabled earlier death sentences to be set aside.

Turkey indicts six more Saudi nationals over Jamal Khashoggi murder

Only two roofs poke out of the vast expanse of an artificial lake that has swallowed an ancient Turkish town Hasankeyf that once drew in tourists with its pre-Ottoman ruins. The echoes of hammers banging stone and dust kicking up from construction sites around the Tigris River lake reveal a new city that is still a work in progress.

Turkey seeks new life for submerged tourist town Hasankeyf

One of the world's oldest towns of Turkey, Hasankeyf now lies underwater. Watch report.

WION Dispatch: Reviving tourism in a submerged town Hasankeyf

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said that Armenia must immediately withdraw from the territory he said it was occupying in Azerbaijan, and it was time to end a crisis over the breakaway region after clashes between Azeri and Armenian forces.

Your Story: Armenia-Azerbaijan flare-up, Turkey says Armenia must withdraw

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has appealed to Turkey to find a diplomatic solution to the tension in the eastern Mediterranean, saying he hopes to build a partnership between the historic rival neighbours.

Greece PM invites Turkey for talks: 'Give diplomacy a chance'

Turkey has ordered the arrest of 82 people in connection to a 6-year-old demonstration. Arrest warrants have been issued against opposition leaders, including a current Mayor. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is going after opposition leaders. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: Is Erdogan trying to silence dissent?

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) may have the upper hand in its competition with Turkey in efforts to shape Palestinian politics. Similarly, the UAE’s recognition of the Jewish state gives it a leg up in ensuring that its voice is heard in Israel and Washington irrespective of who wins the November US election.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan didn’t miss a beat during his address to the United Nations General Assembly, insisting that he, unlike the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, would not accept a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that is not endorsed by the Palestinians.

Mr Erdogan’s solemn pledge may earn him brownie points with large segments of Middle Eastern and Muslim public opinion critical of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and the two Gulf states but does not strengthen his weak hand.

The UAE, with whom Mr Erdogan is at loggerheads over Libya, Syria, and the future of political Islam, may have less clout than it thinks in bringing Israelis and Palestinians back to the negotiating table, but has, for now, more cards to play.

What those cards are worth will only emerge over time.

The UAE is betting that a combination of soft power garnered through recognition of Israel and close security, economic and technological cooperation will enable it to convince the Israeli government that an independent Palestinian state is in Israel’s interest.

While there is little reason to believe that the UAE will succeed where others have failed in recent decades, Emirati leaders, in contrast to Turkey, potentially could in cooperation with Israel also try to impose an unpopular Palestinian figure who has close ties to the US, Emirati and Israeli leadership.

The move would be designed to install a leader who would be &nbsp;more conducive to engaging in peace talks on terms that hold out little hope of meeting long-standing Palestinian aspirations.

It is a scenario that 84-year-old Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas appears to be taking seriously and appears to be trying to pre-empt.

The Democratic Reform Bloc, a political group headed by Mohammed Dahlan, a controversial Abu Dhabi-based former Palestinian security chief believed to be close to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed, the UAE’s de facto ruler, said dozens of his supporters had been arrested or summoned for questioning by Palestinian security forces in recent days.

Mr Dahlan appeared to be walking a fine line when he recently denied any role in mediating relations between the UAE and Israel.

Mr Abbas’ suspicions stem from an unsuccessful effort last year by the UAE to engineer a deal in which Hamas, the Islamist group that controls the Gaza Strip, would share power with Mr Dahlan.

Mr Dahlan went into exile in the UAE in 2007 after Hamas defeated his US-backed efforts to thwart the group’s control of Gaza. US President George W Bush described Mr Dahlan at the time as “our boy.”

He has since been indicted by Mr Abbas’ Palestine Authority on corruption charges.

UAE recognition of Israel constituted an acknowledgment that the 18-year old Arab peace plan that offered Israel diplomatic relations in exchange for land and a Palestinian state had produced naught.

In its rivalry with Turkey, whose assertive support for the Palestinian cause has likewise failed to produce results so far, the UAE is banking on the expectation that it has the upper hand in getting not only Israeli but also the attention of Washington that under US President Donald J Trump has disregarded Palestinian rights.

The UAE assumes that it will be able to capitalize on the fact that Emirati recognition of Israel has further complicated Turkey’s relations with its NATO ally, the United States.

Turkey’s relations with the US are already troubled by US support for Syrian Kurds; Turkish military backing of the Libyan government in Tripoli; tensions between Turkey and Greece, another NATO ally, in the Eastern Mediterranean; and Turkey’s acquisition of Russia’s S-400 anti-missile defense system.

The Trump administration hopes to finalize by December the sale of F-35 fighter planes to the UAE in the wake of the deal with Israel. &nbsp;Earlier, it cancelled Turkey’s acquisition of the same plane in response to the country’s S-400 deal with Russia.&nbsp;

For now, Turkey can look at appreciation by important segments of Arab and Muslim public opinion as an upside of its strident support for the Palestinians.

Seeking to capitalize on its Palestinian goodwill, Turkey has been attempting to end the rift between Mr Abbas’ Al Fatah movement and Hamas in a bid to get the Palestinians to agree on elections and the formation of a joint government.

The two groups, agreed during talks in Istanbul this week to work together and hold long overdue elections in the next six months.

The joker in Turkish-Emirati differences over Israel and Palestine is the upcoming US presidential election in November.

Irrespective of who wins, Turkey has lost to the UAE the beneficial mantle of being Israel’s best Muslim friend.

Nonetheless, an electoral victory by Democratic challenger Joe Biden, who is expected to be more critical of arms purchases by the UAE and other Gulf states and take them to task on human rights issues, could put both Turkey and the Emirates on the back foot.

A Biden victory would be for Turkey a lost opportunity. The very issues that are at the core of its strained relations with the UAE are likely to complicate its relations with a Democratic administration.

Recent media reports reminded Mr. Erdogan that Mr. Biden had described him in a conversation with The New York Times early this year as an “autocrat.” The Democratic candidate suggested that the US. should “embolden” his opponents to defeat him in elections.

In the conversation, Mr. Biden mentioned other issues, including the Kurds, Syria, and tension in the Eastern Mediterranean that do not bode well for US-Turkish relations should the Democrat occupy the White House. Mr. Biden is expected to be also critical of the UAE’s interventions in Yemen and Libya.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, the UAE, despite its own issues with the US, is likely to still find itself in a better place in Washington no matter who emerges victorious from the November election.

A podcast version of this story is available on Soundcloud, Itunes, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker, Pocket Casts, Tumblr, Podbean, Audecibel, Patreon and Castbox.

Dr. James M. Dorsey is an award-winning journalist and a senior fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. He is also a senior research fellow at the National University of Singapore’s Middle East Institute and co-director of the University of Wuerzburg’s Institute of Fan Culture in Germany.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) may have the upper hand in its competition with Turkey in efforts to shape Palestinian politics. Similarly, the UAE’s recognition of the Jewish state gives it a leg up in ensuring that its voice is heard in Israel and Washington irrespective of who wins the November US election.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) may have the upper hand in its competition with Turkey in efforts to shape Palestinian politics. Similarly, the UAE’s recognition of the Jewish state gives it a leg up in ensuring that its voice is heard in Israel and Washington irrespective of who wins the November US election. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan didn’t miss a beat during his address to the United Nations General Assembly, insisting that he, unlike the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, would not accept a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that is not endorsed by the Palestinians. Mr Erdogan’s solemn pledge may earn him brownie points with large segments of Middle Eastern and Muslim public opinion critical of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and the two Gulf states but does not strengthen his weak hand. The UAE, with whom Mr Erdogan is at loggerheads over Libya, Syria, and the future of political Islam, may have less clout than it thinks in bringing Israelis and Palestinians back to the negotiating table, but has, for now, more cards to play. What those cards are worth will only emerge over time. The UAE is betting that a combination of soft power garnered through recognition of Israel and close security, economic and technological cooperation will enable it to convince the Israeli government that an independent Palestinian state is in Israel’s interest. While there is little reason to believe that the UAE will succeed where others have failed in recent decades, Emirati leaders, in contrast to Turkey, potentially could in cooperation with Israel also try to impose an unpopular Palestinian figure who has close ties to the US, Emirati and Israeli leadership. The move would be designed to install a leader who would be more conducive to engaging in peace talks on terms that hold out little hope of meeting long-standing Palestinian aspirations. It is a scenario that 84-year-old Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas appears to be taking seriously and appears to be trying to pre-empt. The Democratic Reform Bloc, a political group headed by Mohammed Dahlan, a controversial Abu Dhabi-based former Palestinian security chief believed to be close to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed, the UAE’s de facto ruler, said dozens of his supporters had been arrested or summoned for questioning by Palestinian security forces in recent days. Mr Dahlan appeared to be walking a fine line when he recently denied any role in mediating relations between the UAE and Israel. Mr Abbas’ suspicions stem from an unsuccessful effort last year by the UAE to engineer a deal in which Hamas, the Islamist group that controls the Gaza Strip, would share power with Mr Dahlan. Mr Dahlan went into exile in the UAE in 2007 after Hamas defeated his US-backed efforts to thwart the group’s control of Gaza. US President George W Bush described Mr Dahlan at the time as “our boy.” He has since been indicted by Mr Abbas’ Palestine Authority on corruption charges. UAE recognition of Israel constituted an acknowledgment that the 18-year old Arab peace plan that offered Israel diplomatic relations in exchange for land and a Palestinian state had produced naught. In its rivalry with Turkey, whose assertive support for the Palestinian cause has likewise failed to produce results so far, the UAE is banking on the expectation that it has the upper hand in getting not only Israeli but also the attention of Washington that under US President Donald J Trump has disregarded Palestinian rights. The UAE assumes that it will be able to capitalize on the fact that Emirati recognition of Israel has further complicated Turkey’s relations with its NATO ally, the United States. Turkey’s relations with the US are already troubled by US support for Syrian Kurds; Turkish military backing of the Libyan government in Tripoli; tensions between Turkey and Greece, another NATO ally, in the Eastern Mediterranean; and Turkey’s acquisition of Russia’s S-400 anti-missile defense system. The Trump administration hopes to finalize by December the sale of F-35 fighter planes to the UAE in the wake of the deal with Israel. Earlier, it cancelled Turkey’s acquisition of the same plane in response to the country’s S-400 deal with Russia. For now, Turkey can look at appreciation by important segments of Arab and Muslim public opinion as an upside of its strident support for the Palestinians. Seeking to capitalize on its Palestinian goodwill, Turkey has been attempting to end the rift between Mr Abbas’ Al Fatah movement and Hamas in a bid to get the Palestinians to agree on elections and the formation of a joint government. The two groups, agreed during talks in Istanbul this week to work together and hold long overdue elections in the next six months. The joker in Turkish-Emirati differences over Israel and Palestine is the upcoming US presidential election in November. Irrespective of who wins, Turkey has lost to the UAE the beneficial mantle of being Israel’s best Muslim friend. Nonetheless, an electoral victory by Democratic challenger Joe Biden, who is expected to be more critical of arms purchases by the UAE and other Gulf states and take them to task on human rights issues, could put both Turkey and the Emirates on the back foot. A Biden victory would be for Turkey a lost opportunity. The very issues that are at the core of its strained relations with the UAE are likely to complicate its relations with a Democratic administration. Recent media reports reminded Mr. Erdogan that Mr. Biden had described him in a conversation with The New York Times early this year as an “autocrat.” The Democratic candidate suggested that the US. should “embolden” his opponents to defeat him in elections. In the conversation, Mr. Biden mentioned other issues, including the Kurds, Syria, and tension in the Eastern Mediterranean that do not bode well for US-Turkish relations should the Democrat occupy the White House. Mr. Biden is expected to be also critical of the UAE’s interventions in Yemen and Libya. Nonetheless, the UAE, despite its own issues with the US, is likely to still find itself in a better place in Washington no matter who emerges victorious from the November election. A podcast version of this story is available on Soundcloud, Itunes, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn, Spreaker, Pocket Casts, Tumblr, Podbean, Audecibel, Patreon and Castbox. Dr. James M. Dorsey is an award-winning journalist and a senior fellow at Nanyang Technological University’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. He is also a senior research fellow at the National University of Singapore’s Middle East Institute and co-director of the University of Wuerzburg’s Institute of Fan Culture in Germany. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Shaping Palestinian politics: The UAE has a leg up on Turkey

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday.

Pompeo will also travel to Italy, with a stop in Vatican City, to discuss religious freedom, and Croatia on the September 27-October 2 trip.

In his second trip to Greece in less than a year, Pompeo will go both to the northern city of Thessaloniki and the southern island of Crete, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-says-its-close-to-resuming-maritime-talks-with-turkey-329270">Also read:&nbsp;Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey</a>

Pompeo will "renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest US-Greek relationship in decades," the State Department said.

In Crete, he will visit the NATO base at Souda Bay "to underscore the strong US security partnership with NATO ally Greece," it said.

Historic tensions flared last month when Turkey sent a vessel backed by military frigates to hunt for oil and gas reserves in waters also claimed by Greece.

Greece responded with naval exercises as a warning and has enjoyed especially vocal backing from France.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-against-iran-venezuelas-maduro-329294">Also read:&nbsp;US imposes sanctions against Iran, Venezuela's Maduro</a>

But the tone has recently softened between Greece and Turkey, also a NATO member, with the two agreeing Tuesday to begin exploratory talks on their dispute.

Pompeo earlier this month also discussed the row on a visit to Cyprus, the majority-Greek island whose northern third is occupied by Turkey.

The United States recently lifted a decades-long arms embargo on Cyprus, outraging Turkey.

But President Donald Trump has maintained warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who controversially helped persuade the US leader to pull troops from Syria.

Relations have been growing for several years between Washington and Athens, which has been building energy ties with US ally Israel.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Greece next week in a show of support following high tensions in the Mediterranean with Turkey, the State Department announced Thursday. Pompeo will also travel to Italy, with a stop in Vatican City, to discuss religious freedom, and Croatia on the September 27-October 2 trip. In his second trip to Greece in less than a year, Pompeo will go both to the northern city of Thessaloniki and the southern island of Crete, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis. Also read: Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey Pompeo will "renew our shared commitment to advance security, peace and prosperity in the Eastern Mediterranean and celebrate the strongest US-Greek relationship in decades," the State Department said. In Crete, he will visit the NATO base at Souda Bay "to underscore the strong US security partnership with NATO ally Greece," it said. Historic tensions flared last month when Turkey sent a vessel backed by military frigates to hunt for oil and gas reserves in waters also claimed by Greece. Greece responded with naval exercises as a warning and has enjoyed especially vocal backing from France. Also read: US imposes sanctions against Iran, Venezuela's Maduro But the tone has recently softened between Greece and Turkey, also a NATO member, with the two agreeing Tuesday to begin exploratory talks on their dispute. Pompeo earlier this month also discussed the row on a visit to Cyprus, the majority-Greek island whose northern third is occupied by Turkey. The United States recently lifted a decades-long arms embargo on Cyprus, outraging Turkey. But President Donald Trump has maintained warm relations with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who controversially helped persuade the US leader to pull troops from Syria. Relations have been growing for several years between Washington and Athens, which has been building energy ties with US ally Israel.

Pompeo to show support for Greece amid Turkey tensions

India on Tuesday disapproved of Turkey's remarks on Kashmir and slammed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for "gross interference" in India's internal affairs. India termed Erdogan's remarks 'completely unacceptable'

"We have seen remarks by President of Turkey on Indian UT of Jammu and Kashmir. They constitute gross interference in India's internal affairs and are completely unacceptable. Turkey should learn to respect the sovereignty of other nations and reflect on its policies more deeply," TS Tirumurti, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, said in a tweet.

Erdogan made remarks on Kashmir on the second day of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He said that Kashmir was still "a burning issue".

"The Kashmir conflict, which is also key to the stability and peace of South Asia, is still a burning issue," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unga-2020-erdogan-calls-kashmir-conflict-a-burning-issue-329483">UNGA 2020: Erdogan calls Kashmir conflict a 'burning issue'</a> 
 
"We are in favour of solving this issue through dialogue within the framework of the United Nations resolutions, especially in line with the expectations of the people of Kashmir," Erdogan added in a prerecorded message.

Turkey, a Pakistan ally, has raised the issue of Jammu and Kashmir many times on various platforms in last one year.

As recently as last week, India had slammed Turkey in Human Rights Council for its interference in India's internal matters.

India on Tuesday disapproved of Turkey's remarks on Kashmir and slammed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for "gross interference" in India's internal affairs.

India on Tuesday disapproved of Turkey's remarks on Kashmir and slammed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for "gross interference" in India's internal affairs. India termed Erdogan's remarks 'completely unacceptable' "We have seen remarks by President of Turkey on Indian UT of Jammu and Kashmir. They constitute gross interference in India's internal affairs and are completely unacceptable. Turkey should learn to respect the sovereignty of other nations and reflect on its policies more deeply," TS Tirumurti, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, said in a tweet. Erdogan made remarks on Kashmir on the second day of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). He said that Kashmir was still "a burning issue". "The Kashmir conflict, which is also key to the stability and peace of South Asia, is still a burning issue," he said. Also Read | UNGA 2020: Erdogan calls Kashmir conflict a 'burning issue' "We are in favour of solving this issue through dialogue within the framework of the United Nations resolutions, especially in line with the expectations of the people of Kashmir," Erdogan added in a prerecorded message. Turkey, a Pakistan ally, has raised the issue of Jammu and Kashmir many times on various platforms in last one year. As recently as last week, India had slammed Turkey in Human Rights Council for its interference in India's internal matters.

India slams Erdogan's Kashmir remark as 'gross interference' in internal affairs

Turkey and Greece have expressed that they are ready to resume exploratory talks, following weeks of tension in the eastern Mediterranean sea.

Greece to hold talks with Turkey over energy resources dispute

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens.

NATO members Turkey and Greece bitterly disagree over maritime jurisdiction and energy exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean, based on conflicting views about the extent of their continental shelves.

Turkey infuriated Greece last month when it sent the Oruc Reis seismic survey vessel to the area. Ankara says the boat has now been recalled for routine maintenance.

"We're close to resuming exploratory talks, but how soon this will happen depends on both sides, on Greece and Turkey. The sentiment is good," Petsas told reporters, adding that Ankara had also indicated its wish for a resumption of talks.

The long-running discussions between Athens and Ankara on demarcating their maritime zones broke down in 2016. Greek media say they could resume as early as this week.

Greece and its close ally Cyprus, both European Union member states, are locked in a dispute with Turkey over overlapping claims to areas believed to be rich in natural gas.

EU leaders are expected to evaluate the situation at a summit on Sept 24-25, though member states are divided over how best to proceed.

EU foreign ministers also discussed the issue at a meeting on Monday and agreed that Turkey's move to recall Oruc Reis was a first, positive step, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said after the meeting. He added that the EU wanted Turkey to make more efforts to show it respected international law.

Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday that exploratory talks could resume but that threats of EU sanctions were not helpful.

Cyprus has pressed for sanctions against Turkey, angered by Ankara's move last week to extend the operations of two vessels in Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until mid-October.,

But, underscoring Greece's milder tone following the withdrawal of the Oruc Reis, Petsas said on Monday the EU should examine ways to activate sanctions only if Turkey does not stick to its recent stance of de-escalation in the east Mediterranean.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is also due to visit Greece this month. He has said the United States is "deeply concerned" about Turkey's actions in the eastern Mediterrean and has urged a diplomatic end to the crisis.

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens.

Greece is close to resuming talks with Turkey over maritime zones, government spokesman Stelios Petsas said on Monday, after Ankara this month recalled an oil and gas exploration vessel from disputed Mediterranean waters in a move welcomed by Athens. NATO members Turkey and Greece bitterly disagree over maritime jurisdiction and energy exploration rights in the eastern Mediterranean, based on conflicting views about the extent of their continental shelves. Turkey infuriated Greece last month when it sent the Oruc Reis seismic survey vessel to the area. Ankara says the boat has now been recalled for routine maintenance. "We're close to resuming exploratory talks, but how soon this will happen depends on both sides, on Greece and Turkey. The sentiment is good," Petsas told reporters, adding that Ankara had also indicated its wish for a resumption of talks. The long-running discussions between Athens and Ankara on demarcating their maritime zones broke down in 2016. Greek media say they could resume as early as this week. Greece and its close ally Cyprus, both European Union member states, are locked in a dispute with Turkey over overlapping claims to areas believed to be rich in natural gas. EU leaders are expected to evaluate the situation at a summit on Sept 24-25, though member states are divided over how best to proceed. EU foreign ministers also discussed the issue at a meeting on Monday and agreed that Turkey's move to recall Oruc Reis was a first, positive step, Greek Foreign Minister Nikos Dendias said after the meeting. He added that the EU wanted Turkey to make more efforts to show it respected international law. Turkey's presidential spokesman said on Sunday that exploratory talks could resume but that threats of EU sanctions were not helpful. Cyprus has pressed for sanctions against Turkey, angered by Ankara's move last week to extend the operations of two vessels in Mediterranean waters off Cyprus until mid-October., But, underscoring Greece's milder tone following the withdrawal of the Oruc Reis, Petsas said on Monday the EU should examine ways to activate sanctions only if Turkey does not stick to its recent stance of de-escalation in the east Mediterranean. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is also due to visit Greece this month. He has said the United States is "deeply concerned" about Turkey's actions in the eastern Mediterrean and has urged a diplomatic end to the crisis.

Greece says it's close to resuming maritime talks with Turkey

A Turkish paraglider pulled a stunt, taking "airbed" literally and flew a giant bed attached to a parachute on Wednesday (September 16).

Air bed: When a Turkish paraglider takes a nap

Turkey's first flying car briefly hovered in the air, successfully completing its first test flight, Turkish manufacturer Baykar Defense said in a written statement on Tuesday (September 15).

Turkey shows off its first 'flying car' prototype

India has slammed Pakistan, Turkey and Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) at United Nation's Human Rights Council (UNHRC) after they raked the Kashmir matter at the Geneva-based body.

India: OIC has allowed itself to be misused by Pakistan

India slams Pakistan, Turkey and OIC at UN Human Rights Council

The Greek government has welcomed a Turkish survey vessel's return to port from a disputed area of the eastern Mediterranean that has been at the heart of a summer stand-off between Greece and Turkey over energy rights.

Turkish survey vessel returns to port: Greece welcomes return of vessel

Greece will boost its armed forces through the purchase of 18 Dassault-made Rafale fighter jets and four frigates and will hire 15,000 army personnel over the next five years.

Greece-Turkey conflict: Greece boosts its defence powers | Will buy 18 Rafale jets from France

A freak sandstorm hit Ankara on Saturday, the Turkish capital's mayor said, as officials said six people were injured after strong winds.

A spectacular video shared by the mayor's office showed a large beige dust cloud enveloping buildings.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Polatlı ilçemizde meydana gelen kum fırtınası nedeniyle ilçe halkımıza geçmiş olsun dileklerimi iletiyorum. 
 
Ekiplerimiz tüm birimleriyle teyakkuzda olup kent genelinde nöbetini sürdürmektedir. 
 
Başkent 153 hattımızdan günün her saati bize ulaşabilirsiniz. <a href="https://t.co/2V1Lle7Zd1">pic.twitter.com/2V1Lle7Zd1</a>
— Mansur Yavaş (@mansuryavas06) <a href="https://twitter.com/mansuryavas06/status/1304783597526814721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Another video posted on social media by the Turkish General Directorate of Meteorology showed massive dust clouds hanging above homes in the capital, and lightning.

The directorate tweeted that the sandstorm and rains would continue until 1600 GMT in the capital, which since late last month has been going through a dry period and heatwave.

It later issued a warning of strong winds and sandstorms for the neighbouring of province, Kirikkale, in central Turkey.

"Six citizens were lightly wounded by objects in the air after strong winds in Polatli and surrounding districts according to initial information," Ankara governor Vasip Sahin said on Twitter.

A freak sandstorm hit Ankara on Saturday, the Turkish capital's mayor said, as officials said six people were injured after strong winds. A spectacular video shared by the mayor's office showed a large beige dust cloud enveloping buildings.

A freak sandstorm hit Ankara on Saturday, the Turkish capital's mayor said, as officials said six people were injured after strong winds. A spectacular video shared by the mayor's office showed a large beige dust cloud enveloping buildings. Polatlı ilçemizde meydana gelen kum fırtınası nedeniyle ilçe halkımıza geçmiş olsun dileklerimi iletiyorum. Ekiplerimiz tüm birimleriyle teyakkuzda olup kent genelinde nöbetini sürdürmektedir. Başkent 153 hattımızdan günün her saati bize ulaşabilirsiniz. pic.twitter.com/2V1Lle7Zd1 — Mansur Yavaş (@mansuryavas06) September 12, 2020 × Another video posted on social media by the Turkish General Directorate of Meteorology showed massive dust clouds hanging above homes in the capital, and lightning. The directorate tweeted that the sandstorm and rains would continue until 1600 GMT in the capital, which since late last month has been going through a dry period and heatwave. It later issued a warning of strong winds and sandstorms for the neighbouring of province, Kirikkale, in central Turkey. "Six citizens were lightly wounded by objects in the air after strong winds in Polatli and surrounding districts according to initial information," Ankara governor Vasip Sahin said on Twitter.

Turkish capital hit by a massive sandstorm

Turkey announced it would conduct a live fire naval exercise off the coast on Cyprus between Saturday and Monday despite the looming threat of EU sanctions.

Turkey is at loggerheads with Greece and Cyprus over hydrocarbon resources and naval influence in the eastern Mediterranean, sparking fears of more severe conflict.

In a message on NAVTEX, the international maritime navigational telex system, Turkey said on Friday there would be a gunnery exercise off the coast of Sadrazamkoy in northern Cyprus.

The announcement comes after southern European leaders warned on Thursday they were ready to back EU sanctions against Turkey if Ankara shunned dialogue.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mediterranean-crisis-greece-turkey-agree-de-escalation-talks-says-nato-325103">Also read|&nbsp;Mediterranean crisis: Greece, Turkey agree de-escalation talks says NATO</a>

The issue will be discussed again at a EU summit on 24-25 September.

Tensions escalated after Turkey sent the Oruc Reis seismic research vessel and a small navy flotilla to waters claimed by Greece on August 10.

Greece then responded by shadowing the Turkish ships and staging naval exercises with several EU allies and the United Arab Emirates in its own show of force.

The Oruc Reis is supposed to remain in the disputed waters until Saturday.

Turkey announced it would conduct a live fire naval exercise off the coast on Cyprus between Saturday and Monday despite the looming threat of EU sanctions. Turkey is at loggerheads with Greece and Cyprus over hydrocarbon resources and naval influence in the eastern Mediterranean, sparking fears of more severe conflict.

Turkey announced it would conduct a live fire naval exercise off the coast on Cyprus between Saturday and Monday despite the looming threat of EU sanctions. Turkey is at loggerheads with Greece and Cyprus over hydrocarbon resources and naval influence in the eastern Mediterranean, sparking fears of more severe conflict. In a message on NAVTEX, the international maritime navigational telex system, Turkey said on Friday there would be a gunnery exercise off the coast of Sadrazamkoy in northern Cyprus. The announcement comes after southern European leaders warned on Thursday they were ready to back EU sanctions against Turkey if Ankara shunned dialogue. Also read| Mediterranean crisis: Greece, Turkey agree de-escalation talks says NATO The issue will be discussed again at a EU summit on 24-25 September. Tensions escalated after Turkey sent the Oruc Reis seismic research vessel and a small navy flotilla to waters claimed by Greece on August 10. Greece then responded by shadowing the Turkish ships and staging naval exercises with several EU allies and the United Arab Emirates in its own show of force. The Oruc Reis is supposed to remain in the disputed waters until Saturday.

Turkey to conduct naval exercises off Cyprus coast

French President Emmanuel Macron called for the need for Europe to have a 'united and clear' voice on Turkey. His appeal has come even as European Union remained indecisive about its response to dispute between Turkey, Greece and Cyprus. The countries are at an unease with each other ever sinced Turkey started drilling for natural resources in eastern Mediterranean Sea. These drilling activities have thrown up diputes of jurisdiction between the countries.

Macron's call for a 'united and clear voice' has come just when Europen Union is struggling to project a unified voice on foreign policy matters. Belarus is still witnessing large scale demoinstrations against Lukashenko.

Also Read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/mediterranean-crisis-greece-to-boost-military-amid-tension-with-turkey-325793">Mediterranean crisis: Greece to boost military amid tension with Turkey</a> 
 
European Union's foreign policy needs a unanimous vote from 27 member states. However, Cyprus has been reluctant to give its nod to sanctions on Belarus unless strong measures are taken against Turkey.

However, there are different voices within European Union as to how Turkey should be dealt with. In spite of demand from Cyprus for tough measures against Turkey, countries like Germany are in favour of rsolution through dialogue.&nbsp;

This has led to absence of the 'united' voice Emmanuel Macron is appealing for. 
&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron called for the need for Europe to have a 'united and clear' voice on Turkey. His appeal has come even as European Union remained indecisive about its response to dispute between Turkey, Greece and Cyprus.

French President Emmanuel Macron called for the need for Europe to have a 'united and clear' voice on Turkey. His appeal has come even as European Union remained indecisive about its response to dispute between Turkey, Greece and Cyprus. The countries are at an unease with each other ever sinced Turkey started drilling for natural resources in eastern Mediterranean Sea. These drilling activities have thrown up diputes of jurisdiction between the countries. Macron's call for a 'united and clear voice' has come just when Europen Union is struggling to project a unified voice on foreign policy matters. Belarus is still witnessing large scale demoinstrations against Lukashenko. Also Read | Mediterranean crisis: Greece to boost military amid tension with Turkey European Union's foreign policy needs a unanimous vote from 27 member states. However, Cyprus has been reluctant to give its nod to sanctions on Belarus unless strong measures are taken against Turkey. However, there are different voices within European Union as to how Turkey should be dealt with. In spite of demand from Cyprus for tough measures against Turkey, countries like Germany are in favour of rsolution through dialogue. This has led to absence of the 'united' voice Emmanuel Macron is appealing for.

Europe needs 'united and clear voice' on Turkey: Macron

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan ratcheted up his rhetoric on Monday (September 7), amid growing tensions between the neighbours over energy resources in the eastern Mediterranean.

Turkey begins military exercises near northern Cyprus

Turkey on Monday said that the Saudi court's ruling to overturn five death sentences in the case of the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi's did not meet global expectations.

Turkey on Monday said that the Saudi court's ruling to overturn five death sentences in the case of the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi's did not meet global expectations. Also read: Saudi scraps death sentences over Khashoggi murder, jails eight Jamal Khashoggi, a critic of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, was strangled, and his body cut into pieces by a 15-man Saudi squad, according to Turkish officials. His remains have not yet been found. "The final verdict that a Saudi court issued today regarding journalist Jamal Khashoggi's execution inside the Kingdom's consulate in Istanbul fell short of meeting the expectations of Turkey and the international community," Fahrettin Altun, communications director at the Turkish presidency, wrote on Twitter. Eight defendants were sentenced to jail for between seven and 20 years in a verdict that comes after Khashoggi's sons "pardoned" the killers in May, paving the way for less severe punishment. These defendants were unnamed and include two former aides of the crown prince, who deny involvement. "We still don't know what happened to Khashoggi's body, who wanted him dead or if there were local collaborators – which casts doubt on the credibility of the legal proceedings in KSA," Altun tweeted. Altun urged the Kingdom to cooperate with Turkey's investigation into the killing. "It is a legal and conscientious obligation to shed light on the Jamal Khashoggi murder, which was committed within Turkey's borders, and to deliver justice," Altun tweeted. "That is the only way to ensure that similar atrocities can be prevented in the future." (Inputs from AFP)

'Saudi's verdict on Khashoggi's case fell short of meeting expectations': Turkey

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