Turkey To Build Four Corvettes For Pakistan As President Erdogan Prioritises Ties With Pakistan. In 2017, when Turkey's President Erdogan visited India, India and Turkey defined their ties as a 'stable and friendly' partnership. Two years later, Turkey is singing a different tune. First Erdogan took the pro-Pakistan position on Kashmir issue, now Turkey is building a warship for Pakistan. Palki explains.

Gravitas: Erdogan Chooses Pakistan Over India As Turkey Builds Warship For Pakistan

The Continued Support Of Turkey & Malaysia To Pakistan On Kashmir Is Based On Religion & Such Religious Congregation Is A Serious Problem On #WionEdit, @Palkisu analyses the unflinching support extended by Turkey and Malaysia to Pakistan on Kashmir issue. One, the congregation is based on religion and two, there are vested political benefits for all parties in this coalition. In simple terms, these countries are not guardians of Muslim community across the world.

Wion Edit: Turkey-malaysia-pakistan: Coalition Of Hypocrisy?

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modis-week-long-us-visit-to-end-with-unga-address-on-friday-252137">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> met the President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly and reiterated <a href="Narendra Modi holds meetings with business leaders in New York">India’s</a> "consistent support for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of Cyprus."

The development comes at a time when Turkey has been very vocal and continues to back Pakistan's line on Kashmir. In fact, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke from the United Nations General Assembly on Kashmir, which may irk New Delhi.

Cyprus and Turkey don't have very good ties as Turkey occupies the northern part of the island country. Recently, Ankara threatened Cyprus with its plan to drill in what Nicosia says is their&nbsp;"exclusive economic zone".

Nicos Anastasiades speaking from UNGA said, "Turkey threatens Cyprus that there will be severe consequences if we proceed ahead with our energy programme... it threatens neighbouring states and energy companies, with which we are cooperating and have established conventional obligations".

Cyprus is called Europe's last divided country with its capital being referred to as the last divided capital of the continent. The Mediterranean island country was invaded by Turkey in 1974 and led to the formation of "Northern Cyprus", recognised only by Turkey. Turkey continues to retain its military presence in the region and has&nbsp;faced criticism for its actions by the United Nations Security Council.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly and reiterated India’s "consistent support for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of Cyprus.

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi met the President of Cyprus Nicos Anastasiades on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly and reiterated India’s "consistent support for the independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of the Republic of Cyprus." The development comes at a time when Turkey has been very vocal and continues to back Pakistan's line on Kashmir. In fact, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan spoke from the United Nations General Assembly on Kashmir, which may irk New Delhi. Cyprus and Turkey don't have very good ties as Turkey occupies the northern part of the island country. Recently, Ankara threatened Cyprus with its plan to drill in what Nicosia says is their "exclusive economic zone". Nicos Anastasiades speaking from UNGA said, "Turkey threatens Cyprus that there will be severe consequences if we proceed ahead with our energy programme... it threatens neighbouring states and energy companies, with which we are cooperating and have established conventional obligations". Cyprus is called Europe's last divided country with its capital being referred to as the last divided capital of the continent. The Mediterranean island country was invaded by Turkey in 1974 and led to the formation of "Northern Cyprus", recognised only by Turkey. Turkey continues to retain its military presence in the region and has faced criticism for its actions by the United Nations Security Council.

As Turkey raises pitch, India reaffirms support for Cyprus' territorial integrity

Turkey's tourism minister said Friday he was unconcerned by the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook as he unveiled ambitious plans to make the country one of the world's top holiday destinations.

"Nobody should be concerned by this," said Mehmet Ersoy, speaking at a conference in Istanbul to outline Turkey's tourism strategy.

"By 2020, we will see an increase in the number of visitors to Thomas Cook destinations."

He said Turkey was holding talks with EasyJet, British Airways and others in the coming days to finalize plans for more flights into areas affected by the Thomas Cook collapse, particularly the resort of Dalaman.

Thomas Cook, which declared bankruptcy last weekend, leaving hundreds of thousands of holidaymakers stranded around Europe, represented around three percent of Turkey's tourist intake.

Turkish tourism has recently recovered from a sudden 25-per cent decline in 2016 caused by a spate of terrorist attacks and political unrest.

At the heart of the new strategy is a major increase in worldwide promotion from $80 million to $180 million over the next year.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made tourism a strategic priority, and the goal is to increase visitors from 55 million to 75 million by 2023, the 100th anniversary of the Turkish republic, with earnings hitting $65 billion.

Cruise ship arrivals are expected to nearly double with the imminent completion of one port in the Istanbul hub of Galata and another due for construction in nearby Yenikapi.

The government is also throwing money at archaeological excavations and cleaner beaches, while also planting scenes of Turkish cuisine into the country's wildly popular soap opera exports.

Turkey's tourism minister said Friday he was unconcerned by the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook as he unveiled ambitious plans to make the country one of the world's top holiday destinations.

Turkey's tourism minister said Friday he was unconcerned by the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook as he unveiled ambitious plans to make the country one of the world's top holiday destinations. "Nobody should be concerned by this," said Mehmet Ersoy, speaking at a conference in Istanbul to outline Turkey's tourism strategy. "By 2020, we will see an increase in the number of visitors to Thomas Cook destinations." He said Turkey was holding talks with EasyJet, British Airways and others in the coming days to finalize plans for more flights into areas affected by the Thomas Cook collapse, particularly the resort of Dalaman. Thomas Cook, which declared bankruptcy last weekend, leaving hundreds of thousands of holidaymakers stranded around Europe, represented around three percent of Turkey's tourist intake. Turkish tourism has recently recovered from a sudden 25-per cent decline in 2016 caused by a spate of terrorist attacks and political unrest. At the heart of the new strategy is a major increase in worldwide promotion from $80 million to $180 million over the next year. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has made tourism a strategic priority, and the goal is to increase visitors from 55 million to 75 million by 2023, the 100th anniversary of the Turkish republic, with earnings hitting $65 billion. Cruise ship arrivals are expected to nearly double with the imminent completion of one port in the Istanbul hub of Galata and another due for construction in nearby Yenikapi. The government is also throwing money at archaeological excavations and cleaner beaches, while also planting scenes of Turkish cuisine into the country's wildly popular soap opera exports.

Turkey shrugs off Thomas Cook collapse amid booming investment

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday said that Pakistan, Turkey and Malaysia will jointly launch an English language channel 'dedicated to confronting the challenges posed by Islamophobia'.

In a tweet, Khan said that the decision was taken during his meeting with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad in New York.

"President Erdogan, PM Mahatir and I had a meeting today in which we decided our 3 countries would jointly start an English language channel dedicated to confronting the challenges posed by Islamophobia and setting the record straight on our great religion - Islam", Khan tweeted.

He also added that the channel would correct the misperceptions which bring people together against Muslims.

Further, Khan said, "Issue of blasphemy would be properly contextualized; series and films would be produced on Muslim history to educate/inform our own people and the world; Muslims would be given a dedicated media presence.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday said that Pakistan, Turkey and Malaysia will jointly launch an English language channel 'dedicated to confronting the challenges posed by Islamophobia'.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Wednesday said that Pakistan, Turkey and Malaysia will jointly launch an English language channel 'dedicated to confronting the challenges posed by Islamophobia'. In a tweet, Khan said that the decision was taken during his meeting with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad in New York. "President Erdogan, PM Mahatir and I had a meeting today in which we decided our 3 countries would jointly start an English language channel dedicated to confronting the challenges posed by Islamophobia and setting the record straight on our great religion - Islam", Khan tweeted. He also added that the channel would correct the misperceptions which bring people together against Muslims. Further, Khan said, "Issue of blasphemy would be properly contextualized; series and films would be produced on Muslim history to educate/inform our own people and the world; Muslims would be given a dedicated media presence.

Pakistan, Turkey, Malaysia to jointly launch English channel for confronting 'Islamophobia'

Turkey said Monday it would support local businesses impacted by the collapse of British tour operator <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nightmare-nightmare-tourists-stranded-after-thomas-cook-collapses-251465">Thomas Cook</a>, adding that 21,033 of its customers were currently in the country.

"The tourism and finance ministries are working on a 'credit support package' to be put in place as soon as possible to help (affected) businesses," the tourism ministry said on Twitter.

Antalya in Turkey was one of Thomas Cook's top destinations, along with Bodrum and Dalaman.&nbsp;

The 178-year-old British operator failed to get a last-ditch rescue deal over the weekend and declared bankruptcy on Monday, leaving 600,000 tourists stranded worldwide.

Some 150,000 of those passengers are Britons seeking help from London to return home. 
&nbsp;

Turkey said Monday it would support local businesses impacted by the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook, adding that 21,033 of its customers were currently in the country.

Turkey said Monday it would support local businesses impacted by the collapse of British tour operator Thomas Cook, adding that 21,033 of its customers were currently in the country. "The tourism and finance ministries are working on a 'credit support package' to be put in place as soon as possible to help (affected) businesses," the tourism ministry said on Twitter. Antalya in Turkey was one of Thomas Cook's top destinations, along with Bodrum and Dalaman. The 178-year-old British operator failed to get a last-ditch rescue deal over the weekend and declared bankruptcy on Monday, leaving 600,000 tourists stranded worldwide. Some 150,000 of those passengers are Britons seeking help from London to return home.

Turkey to back businesses hit by Thomas Cook collapse

Watch in WION Dispatch: Russia says It's ready to help Saudi.

WION Dispatch: Russia says It's ready to help Saudi

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Russian President Vladimir Putin met in Ankara on Monday (September 16) for a trilateral summit on Syria.

Leaders of Turkey, Iran and Russia gather for Syria talks

Russia is ready to help Saudi Arabia following attacks on the Saudi oil industry if needed, Russian President Vladimir Putin said after talks with leaders of Turkey and Iran in Ankara on Monday, and proposed Russian weapons for purchase.

Putin mocks US defence systems, Says 'Saudis Should Buy Russian Missiles'

Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that Washington is stalling in its agreement to create a "safe zone" in northeast Syria, and repeated that Ankara was ready to act on its own if necessary to push back Kurdish fighters.

The NATO allies have agreed to establish what Ankara calls a safe zone along Turkey's southern border and clear the region of Syrian Kurdish YPG fighters. On Sunday, Turkish and US&nbsp;troops carried out their first joint military land patrol there.

Turkey, which labels the YPG a terrorist organization, wants the operations to expand rapidly as far as 20 miles (32 km) from its border to create a zone controlled by Turkish troops.

Cavusoglu said Turkey wanted to work with the United States but was growing impatient. "Yes, there are some joint patrols but other than that, the steps that have been taken or the steps that are said to be taken are cosmetic steps," he told reporters.

"We are seeing that the United States is entering a stalling process...and that it is trying get Turkey accustomed to this stalling process," he said in Ankara, adding Washington's approach has so far served the YPG more than Turkey.

The YPG has been a main US&nbsp;ally in the fight against Islamic State in Syria. US&nbsp;support for the fighters has infuriated Turkey and strained ties with Washington.

His comments came after President Tayyip Erdogan said at the weekend that Turkey rejected Washington's protection of the YPG and added that the NATO allies faced differences "at every step" in the safe zone talks.

Erdogan also said Turkey would act alone if the safe zone was not established by the end of September, a warning Cavusoglu repeated on Tuesday, 20 days before month's end.

New migrant wave

In northwestern Syria's Idlib, where Turkey has troops and where Ankara in 2017 agreed with Moscow and Tehran to reduce fighting, months of renewed conflict intensified in recent weeks and raised prospects of another wave of refugees to Turkey.

Erdogan has said Turkey aims to send 1 million of the 3.6 million Syrian refugees it hosts to the planned safe zone in northern Syria, and warned that Ankara would "open the gates" to Europe unless it received international support.

Speaking at a lunch with US&nbsp;Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross on Tuesday, Erdogan said it was not possible for Turkey to handle a new wave of migrants from Syria.

"Our expectation from the United States is to stand with us in our fight against terror and our efforts to establish safe zones where the refugees can return to," Erdogan said, adding Ankara "greatly valued" its cooperation with Washington in Syria.

"Sending 50,000 trucks of equipment and ammunition to the terrorists so far has really bothered us. Against who are these (weapons) used? Against Turkey. It is not possible for us to accept this as a strategic partner," he said.

Turkey and the United States have been at loggerheads over a host of issues in recent months, including Ankara's purchase of Russian defence systems would could spark US&nbsp;sanctions.

Turkey has so far relied heavily on Erdogan's personal ties with US&nbsp;President Donald Trump to resolve issues. Erdogan and Trump are due to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly later this month to discuss developments in Syria, trade and other bilateral issues.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that Washington is stalling in its agreement to create a "safe zone" in northeast Syria, and repeated that Ankara was ready to act on its own if necessary to push back Kurdish fighters.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that Washington is stalling in its agreement to create a "safe zone" in northeast Syria, and repeated that Ankara was ready to act on its own if necessary to push back Kurdish fighters. The NATO allies have agreed to establish what Ankara calls a safe zone along Turkey's southern border and clear the region of Syrian Kurdish YPG fighters. On Sunday, Turkish and US troops carried out their first joint military land patrol there. Turkey, which labels the YPG a terrorist organization, wants the operations to expand rapidly as far as 20 miles (32 km) from its border to create a zone controlled by Turkish troops. Cavusoglu said Turkey wanted to work with the United States but was growing impatient. "Yes, there are some joint patrols but other than that, the steps that have been taken or the steps that are said to be taken are cosmetic steps," he told reporters. "We are seeing that the United States is entering a stalling process...and that it is trying get Turkey accustomed to this stalling process," he said in Ankara, adding Washington's approach has so far served the YPG more than Turkey. The YPG has been a main US ally in the fight against Islamic State in Syria. US support for the fighters has infuriated Turkey and strained ties with Washington. His comments came after President Tayyip Erdogan said at the weekend that Turkey rejected Washington's protection of the YPG and added that the NATO allies faced differences "at every step" in the safe zone talks. Erdogan also said Turkey would act alone if the safe zone was not established by the end of September, a warning Cavusoglu repeated on Tuesday, 20 days before month's end. New migrant wave In northwestern Syria's Idlib, where Turkey has troops and where Ankara in 2017 agreed with Moscow and Tehran to reduce fighting, months of renewed conflict intensified in recent weeks and raised prospects of another wave of refugees to Turkey. Erdogan has said Turkey aims to send 1 million of the 3.6 million Syrian refugees it hosts to the planned safe zone in northern Syria, and warned that Ankara would "open the gates" to Europe unless it received international support. Speaking at a lunch with US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross on Tuesday, Erdogan said it was not possible for Turkey to handle a new wave of migrants from Syria. "Our expectation from the United States is to stand with us in our fight against terror and our efforts to establish safe zones where the refugees can return to," Erdogan said, adding Ankara "greatly valued" its cooperation with Washington in Syria. "Sending 50,000 trucks of equipment and ammunition to the terrorists so far has really bothered us. Against who are these (weapons) used? Against Turkey. It is not possible for us to accept this as a strategic partner," he said. Turkey and the United States have been at loggerheads over a host of issues in recent months, including Ankara's purchase of Russian defence systems would could spark US sanctions. Turkey has so far relied heavily on Erdogan's personal ties with US President Donald Trump to resolve issues. Erdogan and Trump are due to meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly later this month to discuss developments in Syria, trade and other bilateral issues.

Turkey says US stalling on Syria 'safe zone', will act alone if needed

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he will discuss buying US Patriot missiles with President Donald Trump this month, saying his personal bond with the US leader could overcome a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unfair-to-remove-one-of-the-partners-in-f-35-programme-turkey-to-us-236968">crisis caused by Ankara buying Russian air defence</a> systems.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-deliver-first-s-400-missile-to-turkey-in-july-reports-230635">Turkey's purchase of the Russian S-400 missile</a> system in July raised the prospect of US&nbsp;sanctions, and the State Department has said an offer to sell Raytheon Co's&nbsp;Patriot missile defence system to Ankara has expired.

However, Erdogan told Reuters he had discussed buying Patriots in a phone call with Trump two weeks ago and would follow up when they meet at the UN General Assembly, which opens next week.

"I said no matter what package of ... S-400s we get, we can buy from you a certain amount of Patriots," Erdogan told Reuters on Friday.

"But I said we have to see conditions that at least match up to the S-400s," Erdogan said, adding that he was referring to the possibility of joint production and favourable lending terms.

"He (Trump) said,&nbsp;'Are you serious?' I said: 'Yes'," Erdogan said, adding that he told Trump they would discuss it in greater detail when they meet.

Asked whether he would also ask Trump to prevent the US&nbsp;Treasury imposing a heavy fine on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-will-turn-elsewhere-if-us-does-not-sell-f-35-fighter-jets-erdogan-238608">Turkey</a>'s mainly state-owned Halkbank for violating US sanctions on Iran, Erdogan said he was confident they could avoid such a "mistake", citing what he said was "a different kind of trust" between the two men.

"In my opinion a country like the USA will not want to hurt its ally <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-still-committed-to-purchasing-us-f-35-fighters-foreign-minister-246735">Turkey </a>any more. This is not a rational behaviour," he said in an interview at the Ottoman Dolmabahce palace complex on the Bosphorus in Istanbul.

'Safe zone'

Erdogan and Trump will also discuss plans to establish what Turkey describes as a safe zone along 450 km (280 miles) of Syrian border stretching from the Euphrates river to the Iraq border, a region controlled mainly by US-backed Syrian Kurdish YPG fighters.

On Sunday the two countries launched joint military patrols in the area, but Erdogan says that Washington has dragged its feet in an operation Turkey sees as crucial to driving the YPG, which it designates a terrorist group, away from its border.

Turkey has warned it will act alone if the safe zone is not established this month, raising the prospect of a third Turkish military incursion into northern Syria in three years.

"The peace corridor is the essential thing. We will not allow a terror corridor on our borders and we will take whatever steps are necessary on this subject," he said.

The U.S. alliance with the YPG in Syria has angered NATO member Turkey, which has faced a decades-long insurgency in its mainly Kurdish southeast and fears growing Kurdish military power on its southern border.

"It is Turkey which is fighting with these terror groups... We are your partner in NATO. You give them the weapons for free that you will not sell for money to your NATO ally," he said, referring to US&nbsp;arms supplies to the YPG.

"We are fed up with explaining this... I think Trump must understand us," Erdogan said.

Russia and Iran back Syrian President Bashar al-Assad against rebels who sought his overthrow. The United States, European and Arab allies as well as Turkey have supported different rebel factions.

Assad has regained control of most territory lost in the early stages of the eight-year conflict and has vowed to retake every inch of Syria including the northwestern province of Idlib, where Syrian and foreign radical fighters hold sway alongside other more moderate factions.

Erdogan reiterated a warning that Turkey would be forced to let Syrian refugees on its soil leave for Europe if Western nations did not provide greater support to Turkey and support its plans for a safe zone where Syrians could be settled.

"If you can’t accept this business, we will open the gates. Let them go from there wherever they want," he said.

Establishing the zone 20 miles (32 km) inside northeast Syria would allow refugees in Turkey "to return to their lands, and allow for all their needs - from education, health, shelter - to be met. It will allow them to live on their own lands and break away from the tent life and container cities," he said.

Erdogan said the financial aid Turkey was receiving from the European Union was not sufficient to ease the burden of 3.6 million Syrian refugees who have fled to Turkey since the civil war erupted in 2011.

Turkey says it has spent $40 billion hosting the Syrians, and a deal with the EU to give 6 billion euros to support those efforts was not enough and too slow, a message he would repeat to German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the United Nations.

Erdogan will host the presidents of Russia and Iran on Monday for talks that would focus on securing a lasting truce in Idlib, preventing a fresh refugee wave into Turkey, and asserting control over jihadist fighters there, he said.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he will discuss buying US Patriot missiles with President Donald Trump this month, saying his personal bond with the US leader could overcome a crisis caused by Ankara buying Russian air defence systems.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he will discuss buying US Patriot missiles with President Donald Trump this month, saying his personal bond with the US leader could overcome a crisis caused by Ankara buying Russian air defence systems. Turkey's purchase of the Russian S-400 missile system in July raised the prospect of US sanctions, and the State Department has said an offer to sell Raytheon Co's Patriot missile defence system to Ankara has expired. However, Erdogan told Reuters he had discussed buying Patriots in a phone call with Trump two weeks ago and would follow up when they meet at the UN General Assembly, which opens next week. "I said no matter what package of ... S-400s we get, we can buy from you a certain amount of Patriots," Erdogan told Reuters on Friday. "But I said we have to see conditions that at least match up to the S-400s," Erdogan said, adding that he was referring to the possibility of joint production and favourable lending terms. "He (Trump) said, 'Are you serious?' I said: 'Yes'," Erdogan said, adding that he told Trump they would discuss it in greater detail when they meet. Asked whether he would also ask Trump to prevent the US Treasury imposing a heavy fine on Turkey's mainly state-owned Halkbank for violating US sanctions on Iran, Erdogan said he was confident they could avoid such a "mistake", citing what he said was "a different kind of trust" between the two men. "In my opinion a country like the USA will not want to hurt its ally Turkey any more. This is not a rational behaviour," he said in an interview at the Ottoman Dolmabahce palace complex on the Bosphorus in Istanbul. 'Safe zone' Erdogan and Trump will also discuss plans to establish what Turkey describes as a safe zone along 450 km (280 miles) of Syrian border stretching from the Euphrates river to the Iraq border, a region controlled mainly by US-backed Syrian Kurdish YPG fighters. On Sunday the two countries launched joint military patrols in the area, but Erdogan says that Washington has dragged its feet in an operation Turkey sees as crucial to driving the YPG, which it designates a terrorist group, away from its border. Turkey has warned it will act alone if the safe zone is not established this month, raising the prospect of a third Turkish military incursion into northern Syria in three years. "The peace corridor is the essential thing. We will not allow a terror corridor on our borders and we will take whatever steps are necessary on this subject," he said. The U.S. alliance with the YPG in Syria has angered NATO member Turkey, which has faced a decades-long insurgency in its mainly Kurdish southeast and fears growing Kurdish military power on its southern border. "It is Turkey which is fighting with these terror groups... We are your partner in NATO. You give them the weapons for free that you will not sell for money to your NATO ally," he said, referring to US arms supplies to the YPG. "We are fed up with explaining this... I think Trump must understand us," Erdogan said. Russia and Iran back Syrian President Bashar al-Assad against rebels who sought his overthrow. The United States, European and Arab allies as well as Turkey have supported different rebel factions. Assad has regained control of most territory lost in the early stages of the eight-year conflict and has vowed to retake every inch of Syria including the northwestern province of Idlib, where Syrian and foreign radical fighters hold sway alongside other more moderate factions. Erdogan reiterated a warning that Turkey would be forced to let Syrian refugees on its soil leave for Europe if Western nations did not provide greater support to Turkey and support its plans for a safe zone where Syrians could be settled. "If you can’t accept this business, we will open the gates. Let them go from there wherever they want," he said. Establishing the zone 20 miles (32 km) inside northeast Syria would allow refugees in Turkey "to return to their lands, and allow for all their needs - from education, health, shelter - to be met. It will allow them to live on their own lands and break away from the tent life and container cities," he said. Erdogan said the financial aid Turkey was receiving from the European Union was not sufficient to ease the burden of 3.6 million Syrian refugees who have fled to Turkey since the civil war erupted in 2011. Turkey says it has spent $40 billion hosting the Syrians, and a deal with the EU to give 6 billion euros to support those efforts was not enough and too slow, a message he would repeat to German Chancellor Angela Merkel at the United Nations. Erdogan will host the presidents of Russia and Iran on Monday for talks that would focus on securing a lasting truce in Idlib, preventing a fresh refugee wave into Turkey, and asserting control over jihadist fighters there, he said.

Turkey's Erdogan to discuss buying US Patriot missiles with Trump

Former Turkish prime minister Ahmet Davutoglu on Friday said he would launch a "new political movement" in the latest challenge to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan from his former allies.

Erdogan has seen an increasing number of defections from former allies in recent months, amid disquiet over the party's policies on freedoms, justice, and the economy.

Dissent within the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has accelerated since a controversial decision to annul an opposition victory in the Istanbul mayoral election in March, only for the opposition to win by an even wider margin in the re-run.

Davutoglu already signalled his intention to split several months ago when he criticized the handling of the Istanbul poll.

"It is our historical responsibility and duty to the nation to set up a new political movement," he told reporters in Ankara on Friday.

Davutoglu was foreign minister before serving as premier and chairman of the AKP, until relations soured with Erdogan in 2016 and he was forced out of office.

"I resign from the party where I have served with great honour, worked for years and given much effort," he said.

His resignation comes before he was pushed out of the AKP.

Earlier this month, the AKP's executive committee unanimously agreed to send Davutoglu to a disciplinary board for dismissal a move he described as the moment the AKP "renounced its founding values and principles."

'Deep differences'&nbsp;

Splits within the ruling party are now out in the open and "will continue to weaken the AKP," said Berk Esen of Ankara's Bilkent University.

Another key defector is ex-economy Minister Ali Babacan, who this week told Turkish daily Karar that he would launch his own party by the end of 2019.

Babacan was credited with overseeing Turkey's economic boom in the 2000s, having served as both economy minister and deputy prime minister between 2002, when the AKP first came to power, and 2015 when he left the government.

Babacan, a founding AKP member, resigned from the party in July, citing the need for a "new vision" for Turkey and "deep differences" over policy.

He said he would not join forces with Davutoglu, however, because their "political priorities, method and tone are different".

Babacan and Davutoglu are now in a race to establish their parties and peel away discontented AKP voters, said Esen.

"Babacan has a higher chance of success than Davutoglu, whose foreign policy agenda after the Arab Spring was discredited," said Esen.

Davutoglu spearheaded an aggressive strategy as foreign minister, which left Turkey with few friends in the Middle East and a strained relationship with Russia. He was also the face of Turkey's failed attempt to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

There have been unconfirmed reports that Babacan may ally with former president Abdullah Gul and other senior figures including ex-justice minister Sadullah Ergin, who resigned from the AKP last month.

"(Babacan) could appeal to the wider electorate, as opposed to Davutoglu who strikes a very conservative tone," said Esen.

Former Turkish prime minister Ahmet Davutoglu on Friday said he would launch a "new political movement" in the latest challenge to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan from his former allies.

Former Turkish prime minister Ahmet Davutoglu on Friday said he would launch a "new political movement" in the latest challenge to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan from his former allies. Erdogan has seen an increasing number of defections from former allies in recent months, amid disquiet over the party's policies on freedoms, justice, and the economy. Dissent within the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) has accelerated since a controversial decision to annul an opposition victory in the Istanbul mayoral election in March, only for the opposition to win by an even wider margin in the re-run. Davutoglu already signalled his intention to split several months ago when he criticized the handling of the Istanbul poll. "It is our historical responsibility and duty to the nation to set up a new political movement," he told reporters in Ankara on Friday. Davutoglu was foreign minister before serving as premier and chairman of the AKP, until relations soured with Erdogan in 2016 and he was forced out of office. "I resign from the party where I have served with great honour, worked for years and given much effort," he said. His resignation comes before he was pushed out of the AKP. Earlier this month, the AKP's executive committee unanimously agreed to send Davutoglu to a disciplinary board for dismissal a move he described as the moment the AKP "renounced its founding values and principles." 'Deep differences' Splits within the ruling party are now out in the open and "will continue to weaken the AKP," said Berk Esen of Ankara's Bilkent University. Another key defector is ex-economy Minister Ali Babacan, who this week told Turkish daily Karar that he would launch his own party by the end of 2019. Babacan was credited with overseeing Turkey's economic boom in the 2000s, having served as both economy minister and deputy prime minister between 2002, when the AKP first came to power, and 2015 when he left the government. Babacan, a founding AKP member, resigned from the party in July, citing the need for a "new vision" for Turkey and "deep differences" over policy. He said he would not join forces with Davutoglu, however, because their "political priorities, method and tone are different". Babacan and Davutoglu are now in a race to establish their parties and peel away discontented AKP voters, said Esen. "Babacan has a higher chance of success than Davutoglu, whose foreign policy agenda after the Arab Spring was discredited," said Esen. Davutoglu spearheaded an aggressive strategy as foreign minister, which left Turkey with few friends in the Middle East and a strained relationship with Russia. He was also the face of Turkey's failed attempt to oust Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. There have been unconfirmed reports that Babacan may ally with former president Abdullah Gul and other senior figures including ex-justice minister Sadullah Ergin, who resigned from the AKP last month. "(Babacan) could appeal to the wider electorate, as opposed to Davutoglu who strikes a very conservative tone," said Esen.

Former Turkey premier Ahmet Davutoglu promises new political party

An Austrian student and journalist charged with membership of a leftist terrorist group in Turkey have been acquitted, his lawyer said on Wednesday.

Max Zirngast, who wrote for international publications including a far-left German magazine, was arrested exactly a year ago, accused of links to the outlawed Turkish Communist Party (TKP)/Kivilcim group.

The 30-year-old was also a political science master's student at Middle East Technical University in Ankara at the time of his arrest.

He had defended himself in Turkish at the last hearing in April.

"A verdict was received that Max did not take part in any illegal activity or any activity constituting a crime," his lawyer Murat Yilmaz told AFP.

He said two Turkish citizens, Mithatcan Turetken and Hatice Goz, who were arrested along with Zirngast, were also acquitted.

Zirngast had been free pending the latest hearing on Wednesday but had been barred from leaving Turkey.

He rejected the charges and denied the TKP/Kivilcim group even exists.

In an opinion piece for the Washington Post last year, Zirngast wrote that his arrest was "a perverse confirmation of the authoritarianism I've spent the past several years chronicling and opposing".

He also criticised the attempt to "silence the entire democratic opposition in Ankara".

Zirngast had also published articles on the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984 and is designated a terrorist organisation by Ankara and its Western allies.

An Austrian student and journalist charged with membership of a leftist terrorist group in Turkey have been acquitted, his lawyer said on Wednesday. Max Zirngast, who wrote for international publications including a far-left German magazine, was arrested exactly a year ago, accused of links to the outlawed Turkish Communist Party (TKP)/Kivilcim group.

An Austrian student and journalist charged with membership of a leftist terrorist group in Turkey have been acquitted, his lawyer said on Wednesday. Max Zirngast, who wrote for international publications including a far-left German magazine, was arrested exactly a year ago, accused of links to the outlawed Turkish Communist Party (TKP)/Kivilcim group. The 30-year-old was also a political science master's student at Middle East Technical University in Ankara at the time of his arrest. He had defended himself in Turkish at the last hearing in April. "A verdict was received that Max did not take part in any illegal activity or any activity constituting a crime," his lawyer Murat Yilmaz told AFP. He said two Turkish citizens, Mithatcan Turetken and Hatice Goz, who were arrested along with Zirngast, were also acquitted. Zirngast had been free pending the latest hearing on Wednesday but had been barred from leaving Turkey. He rejected the charges and denied the TKP/Kivilcim group even exists. In an opinion piece for the Washington Post last year, Zirngast wrote that his arrest was "a perverse confirmation of the authoritarianism I've spent the past several years chronicling and opposing". He also criticised the attempt to "silence the entire democratic opposition in Ankara". Zirngast had also published articles on the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984 and is designated a terrorist organisation by Ankara and its Western allies.

Turkey acquits Austrian student over terror charge

Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that Washington is stalling the implementation of an agreement to create a "safe zone" in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-turkey-launch-joint-patrols-in-northeast-syria-248400">northeast Syria</a>.

The NATO allies carried out their first joint military land patrol in the region on Sunday.

Turkey wants the operations to expand rapidly and push back Kurdish forces 20 miles (32 km) from the border, creating a zone which Ankara says should be controlled by Turkish troops.

Cavusoglu said Turkey wanted to work with the United States, but was prepared to clear the area of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-us-imposes-sanctions-on-irans-shipping-network-over-supplying-oil-to-syria-247630"> Kurdish YPG fighters </a>itself if necessary.

"Yes, there are some joint patrols but other than that, the steps that have been taken or the steps that are said to be taken are cosmetic steps," he told reporters in Ankara.

"We are seeing that the United States is entering a stalling process and that it is trying to get Turkey accustomed to this stalling process."

Cavusoglu said Washington's approach so far had served the Syrian Kurdish YPG forces more than Turkey.

The YPG, which has been the main US ally in the fight against Islamic State in Syria, is considered a terrorist organisation by Ankara, which says it is an extension of Kurdish militants in Turkey.

President Tayyip Erdogan said last week Turkey also aims to send 1 million of the 3.6 million Syrian refugees it hosts to the planned safe zone in northern Syria.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that Washington is stalling the implementation of an agreement to create a "safe zone" in northeast Syria.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Tuesday that Washington is stalling the implementation of an agreement to create a "safe zone" in northeast Syria. The NATO allies carried out their first joint military land patrol in the region on Sunday. Turkey wants the operations to expand rapidly and push back Kurdish forces 20 miles (32 km) from the border, creating a zone which Ankara says should be controlled by Turkish troops. Cavusoglu said Turkey wanted to work with the United States, but was prepared to clear the area of Kurdish YPG fighters itself if necessary. "Yes, there are some joint patrols but other than that, the steps that have been taken or the steps that are said to be taken are cosmetic steps," he told reporters in Ankara. "We are seeing that the United States is entering a stalling process and that it is trying to get Turkey accustomed to this stalling process." Cavusoglu said Washington's approach so far had served the Syrian Kurdish YPG forces more than Turkey. The YPG, which has been the main US ally in the fight against Islamic State in Syria, is considered a terrorist organisation by Ankara, which says it is an extension of Kurdish militants in Turkey. President Tayyip Erdogan said last week Turkey also aims to send 1 million of the 3.6 million Syrian refugees it hosts to the planned safe zone in northern Syria.

US stalling on Syria 'safe zone': Turkey

Former Turkish deputy prime minister Ali Babacan will form a new political party before the end of the year to challenge President Tayyip Erdogan's AK Party, announcing his intentions in a newspaper interview published on Tuesday.

Babacan resigned from the AK Party in July, citing "deep differences". He had been a founding member of the AK Party and served as an economy and foreign minister during its first years in power before becoming deputy prime minister, a role he held from 2009 to 2015.

Babacan told the Karar newspaper that he was still working to find like-minded individuals to forge a team to lead the new party.

"This will take some time," he told the newspaper. "We want the party to be formed before 2020. The quality is very important here,"

Erdogan's AK Party suffered a stinging electoral defeat in Istanbul mayoral elections in June, and a party led by Babacan could further erode Erdogan's support base.

Former Turkish deputy prime minister Ali Babacan will form a new political party before the end of the year to challenge President Tayyip Erdogan's AK Party, announcing his intentions in a newspaper interview published on Tuesday.

Former Turkish deputy prime minister Ali Babacan will form a new political party before the end of the year to challenge President Tayyip Erdogan's AK Party, announcing his intentions in a newspaper interview published on Tuesday. Babacan resigned from the AK Party in July, citing "deep differences". He had been a founding member of the AK Party and served as an economy and foreign minister during its first years in power before becoming deputy prime minister, a role he held from 2009 to 2015. Babacan told the Karar newspaper that he was still working to find like-minded individuals to forge a team to lead the new party. "This will take some time," he told the newspaper. "We want the party to be formed before 2020. The quality is very important here," Erdogan's AK Party suffered a stinging electoral defeat in Istanbul mayoral elections in June, and a party led by Babacan could further erode Erdogan's support base.

Former Erdogan ally to form rival party before year-end: paper

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces who battled the Islamic State jihadist group.

Six Turkish armoured vehicles crossed the border to join US forces in Syria for their first joint patrol under a deal reached between Washington and Ankara, an AFP journalist reported.

Two helicopters flew over the area as the Turkish vehicles drove through an opening in the concrete wall separating the two countries.

They then headed west with the same number of American vehicles, along with an ambulance and a pick-up, for the joint operation, before crossing back into Turkey.

The Turkish defence ministry said drones were also deployed.

The agreement reached on August 7 aims to establish a "safe zone" between the Turkish border and the Syrian areas east of the Euphrates river controlled by the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG).

Syrian Kurdish forces began withdrawing from along the Turkish border in late August.

The patrol allowed Turkish forces to observe "first-hand progress on destroyed YPG fortifications and areas where YPG elements voluntarily departed the area", said Colonel Myles Caggins, spokesman for the US-led coalition against IS.

The YPG forms the backbone of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) -- a key partner of Washington in the fight against IS jihadists in Syria.

But Ankara sees the YPG as an extension of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party.

The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, is blacklisted as a terrorist group by Ankara, the US and the European Union.

Washington's support for the SDF has been a major point of friction with fellow NATO member Turkey.

Caggins said the patrol demonstrated the coalition's "continued commitment to address Turkey's legitimate security concerns, while also allowing the coalition and our SDF partners to remain focused on achieving the enduring defeat" of IS.&nbsp;

'Preventing war'

Turkey carried out unilateral offensives in northern Syria against IS in 2016 and the YPG in 2018.

As the regional fight against IS winds down, the prospect of a US military withdrawal has stoked Kurdish fears of another Turkish attack.&nbsp;

"We are implementing the agreement and we have no problem with it as long as it prevents war," said Riyad Khamis, the head of an SDF-led military council in the border town of Tal Abyad.

Although they led the US-backed fight against IS, Syria's Kurds have largely stayed out of Syria's eight-year civil war, instead building their own autonomous institutions in areas they control.

Sunday's patrol drew sharp criticism from Damascus, which labelled it a flagrant "aggression" that seeks to prolong Syria's war.

It also reiterated its "absolute rejection" of the planned safe zone, calling it a violation of Syria's sovereignty.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to launch an operation against the YPG in Syria unless progress is made on setting up the safe zone.

Erdogan said his US counterpart Donald Trump had promised the buffer would be 32 kilometres (20 miles) wide.

Turkish army chief General Yasar Guler told General Joseph Dunford, the top US military officer, in a phone call on Saturday that the safe zone must be set up without delay, the Turkish defence ministry said.

A joint centre of operations was recently established as part of the agreement.

Ankara hopes the safe zone will smooth the way for the return of some of the more than 3.6 million Syrian refugees living in Turkey, but experts say the situation remains unclear.

"We may have joint patrols but we still don't have a joint understanding of what the safe zone is," said Nicholas Danforth, senior visiting fellow at the German Marshall Fund of the United States.

"America sees the safe zone as a way to preserve our relationship with the SDF and preserve the SDF's autonomy. Turkey sees the safe zone as a step toward ending them both."

 
&nbsp;

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces who battled the Islamic State jihadist group.

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces who battled the Islamic State jihadist group. Six Turkish armoured vehicles crossed the border to join US forces in Syria for their first joint patrol under a deal reached between Washington and Ankara, an AFP journalist reported. Two helicopters flew over the area as the Turkish vehicles drove through an opening in the concrete wall separating the two countries. They then headed west with the same number of American vehicles, along with an ambulance and a pick-up, for the joint operation, before crossing back into Turkey. The Turkish defence ministry said drones were also deployed. The agreement reached on August 7 aims to establish a "safe zone" between the Turkish border and the Syrian areas east of the Euphrates river controlled by the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG). Syrian Kurdish forces began withdrawing from along the Turkish border in late August. The patrol allowed Turkish forces to observe "first-hand progress on destroyed YPG fortifications and areas where YPG elements voluntarily departed the area", said Colonel Myles Caggins, spokesman for the US-led coalition against IS. The YPG forms the backbone of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) -- a key partner of Washington in the fight against IS jihadists in Syria. But Ankara sees the YPG as an extension of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party. The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, is blacklisted as a terrorist group by Ankara, the US and the European Union. Washington's support for the SDF has been a major point of friction with fellow NATO member Turkey. Caggins said the patrol demonstrated the coalition's "continued commitment to address Turkey's legitimate security concerns, while also allowing the coalition and our SDF partners to remain focused on achieving the enduring defeat" of IS. 'Preventing war' Turkey carried out unilateral offensives in northern Syria against IS in 2016 and the YPG in 2018. As the regional fight against IS winds down, the prospect of a US military withdrawal has stoked Kurdish fears of another Turkish attack. "We are implementing the agreement and we have no problem with it as long as it prevents war," said Riyad Khamis, the head of an SDF-led military council in the border town of Tal Abyad. Although they led the US-backed fight against IS, Syria's Kurds have largely stayed out of Syria's eight-year civil war, instead building their own autonomous institutions in areas they control. Sunday's patrol drew sharp criticism from Damascus, which labelled it a flagrant "aggression" that seeks to prolong Syria's war. It also reiterated its "absolute rejection" of the planned safe zone, calling it a violation of Syria's sovereignty. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to launch an operation against the YPG in Syria unless progress is made on setting up the safe zone. Erdogan said his US counterpart Donald Trump had promised the buffer would be 32 kilometres (20 miles) wide. Turkish army chief General Yasar Guler told General Joseph Dunford, the top US military officer, in a phone call on Saturday that the safe zone must be set up without delay, the Turkish defence ministry said. A joint centre of operations was recently established as part of the agreement. Ankara hopes the safe zone will smooth the way for the return of some of the more than 3.6 million Syrian refugees living in Turkey, but experts say the situation remains unclear. "We may have joint patrols but we still don't have a joint understanding of what the safe zone is," said Nicholas Danforth, senior visiting fellow at the German Marshall Fund of the United States. "America sees the safe zone as a way to preserve our relationship with the SDF and preserve the SDF's autonomy. Turkey sees the safe zone as a step toward ending them both."

US, Turkey launch joint patrols in northeast Syria

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces.&nbsp;

Six Turkish armoured vehicles crossed the border to join US troops in Syria for their first joint patrol under a deal reached between Washington and Ankara, an AFP journalist reported.

Two helicopters overflew the area as the Turkish vehicles drove through an opening in the concrete wall erected between the two countries.

The agreement reached on August 7 aims to establish a "safe zone" between the Turkish border and the Syrian areas east of the Euphrates river controlled by the Kurdish People's Protection Units militia.

The YPG is an ally of the US but seen as a terrorist organisation by Turkey.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to launch an operation against the YPG in Syria unless progress is made on setting up the safe zone.

Erdogan said his US counterpart Donald Trump had promised it would be 32 kilometres (20 miles) wide.

A joint centre of operations was recently established as part of the agreement.&nbsp;

Turkey previously conducted cross-border operations in northern Syria supporting Syrian rebels in 2016 against IS and in early 2018 against the YPG.

Ankara says the YPG militia is a "terrorist" offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party.

The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, is blacklisted as a terrorist group by Ankara, the US and the European Union.

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces. Six Turkish armoured vehicles crossed the border to join US troops in Syria for their first joint patrol under a deal reached between Washington and Ankara, an AFP journalist reported.

The United States and Turkey on Sunday began joint patrols in northeastern Syria aimed at easing tensions between Ankara and US-backed Kurdish forces. Six Turkish armoured vehicles crossed the border to join US troops in Syria for their first joint patrol under a deal reached between Washington and Ankara, an AFP journalist reported. Two helicopters overflew the area as the Turkish vehicles drove through an opening in the concrete wall erected between the two countries. The agreement reached on August 7 aims to establish a "safe zone" between the Turkish border and the Syrian areas east of the Euphrates river controlled by the Kurdish People's Protection Units militia. The YPG is an ally of the US but seen as a terrorist organisation by Turkey. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has threatened to launch an operation against the YPG in Syria unless progress is made on setting up the safe zone. Erdogan said his US counterpart Donald Trump had promised it would be 32 kilometres (20 miles) wide. A joint centre of operations was recently established as part of the agreement. Turkey previously conducted cross-border operations in northern Syria supporting Syrian rebels in 2016 against IS and in early 2018 against the YPG. Ankara says the YPG militia is a "terrorist" offshoot of the outlawed Kurdistan Workers' Party. The PKK, which has waged an insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, is blacklisted as a terrorist group by Ankara, the US and the European Union.

Turkey said on Friday that an Iranian oil tanker at the centre of a confrontation between Washington and Tehran was headed to Lebanon's waters, but the United States later said the ship was sailing to Syria.

According to Refinitiv tracking data, the Adrian Darya, formerly called Grace 1, after changing course several times headed on Friday for Turkey's Iskenderun port, 200 km (124 miles) north of Syria's Baniyas refinery, the tanker's suspected original destination.

When the ship was released off Gibraltar in mid-August after a five-week standoff, Iran assured Britain that the cargo was not headed to Syria.

The latest twist sets it in the direction of Syria, and raises the possibility that a ship-to-ship transfer of cargo may be attempted once it nears Lebanon's coast.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a tweet late on Friday: "We have reliable information that the tanker is underway and headed to Tartus, Syria."

Pompeo had earlier said that if the tanker went to Syria, Washington would take every action it could consistent with US&nbsp;sanctions.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said earlier on Friday that despite the tracking data, the tanker was "for sure" not going to Turkish ports but rather towards Lebanese waters.

Earlier on Friday, the minister told Reuters the ship was headed to Lebanon's "main" port. "I didn't mean that this tanker is going to a Lebanese port, but (rather) according to the information coordinates it is heading to the territorial waters of the country," he later told reporters at an Oslo forum.

"It doesn't mean that it is going to reach a Lebanese port," he said of the tanker that was carrying 2 million barrels of oil when released at Gibraltar. "We are monitoring it very closely."

In response, Lebanese Finance Minister Ali Hassan Khalil said in a separate interview: "We have not been informed of the Iranian oil tanker Adrian Darya heading (here)."

Western threats

The apparent confusion underlines the risk of reprisal that countries face taking in the tanker, which at 1400 GMT was headed east toward the channel separating Turkey and Cyprus after a series of turns in the Mediterranean Sea, according to tracking data.

The ship had been detained off Gibraltar due to British suspicion that it was carrying Iranian oil to Syria in violation of European Union sanctions.

The United States says the tanker is controlled by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, which it considers a terrorist group.

"What's important here is that it is carrying oil that enables the terrorism of (President Bashar al-Assad's) regime," a State Department spokesperson said. The Trump administration has conveyed "our strong position via diplomatic channels to all ports in the Mediterranean that should be forewarned about facilitating" the tanker, said the spokesperson, who declined to be named.

The US&nbsp;Treasury Department on Friday blacklisted the ship and sanctioned its captain.

Washington last year pulled out of a nuclear deal with Iran aimed at blocking its path to a nuclear bomb, and has ramped up sanctions to pressure and isolate Tehran. Iran denies ever having sought to build or acquire a nuclear weapon.

Cavusoglu told Reuters that Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan spoke about the ship's coordinates with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday. In a readout of the call, London said the leaders agreed it was vital to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon but did not mention the tanker.

Options ahead

Shipping sources said the tanker would need to conduct a ship-to-ship transfer before being able to enter a port such as Beirut's, which does not have deep water facilities necessary for fully laden supertankers.

It could potentially discharge its cargo offshore towards Lebanon's Tripoli port further north, which is closer to Syria's coastline between Lebanon and Turkey, they said. There is a ship-to-ship transfer anchorage outside of Tripoli port limits.

Beirut and Tripoli ports have both served as transhipment hubs for cargoes bound for Syria in recent years during Syria's conflict.

An Iranian government spokesman was quoted on Monday as saying Iran had sold the oil aboard the tanker and that the vessel's owner, whose identity he did not disclose, would decide its destination.

After its release at Gibraltar, the ship stated that its destination was the Greek port of Kalamata, then Turkey's Mersin. On Thursday, it abruptly changed course, heading first west then south, away from the Turkish coast.

While west of Cyprus on Friday morning, it did a similar manouevre, doubling back on itself.

Turkey said on Friday that an Iranian oil tanker at the centre of a confrontation between Washington and Tehran was headed to Lebanon's waters, but the United States later said the ship was sailing to Syria.

Turkey said on Friday that an Iranian oil tanker at the centre of a confrontation between Washington and Tehran was headed to Lebanon's waters, but the United States later said the ship was sailing to Syria. According to Refinitiv tracking data, the Adrian Darya, formerly called Grace 1, after changing course several times headed on Friday for Turkey's Iskenderun port, 200 km (124 miles) north of Syria's Baniyas refinery, the tanker's suspected original destination. When the ship was released off Gibraltar in mid-August after a five-week standoff, Iran assured Britain that the cargo was not headed to Syria. The latest twist sets it in the direction of Syria, and raises the possibility that a ship-to-ship transfer of cargo may be attempted once it nears Lebanon's coast. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a tweet late on Friday: "We have reliable information that the tanker is underway and headed to Tartus, Syria." Pompeo had earlier said that if the tanker went to Syria, Washington would take every action it could consistent with US sanctions. Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said earlier on Friday that despite the tracking data, the tanker was "for sure" not going to Turkish ports but rather towards Lebanese waters. Earlier on Friday, the minister told Reuters the ship was headed to Lebanon's "main" port. "I didn't mean that this tanker is going to a Lebanese port, but (rather) according to the information coordinates it is heading to the territorial waters of the country," he later told reporters at an Oslo forum. "It doesn't mean that it is going to reach a Lebanese port," he said of the tanker that was carrying 2 million barrels of oil when released at Gibraltar. "We are monitoring it very closely." In response, Lebanese Finance Minister Ali Hassan Khalil said in a separate interview: "We have not been informed of the Iranian oil tanker Adrian Darya heading (here)." Western threats The apparent confusion underlines the risk of reprisal that countries face taking in the tanker, which at 1400 GMT was headed east toward the channel separating Turkey and Cyprus after a series of turns in the Mediterranean Sea, according to tracking data. The ship had been detained off Gibraltar due to British suspicion that it was carrying Iranian oil to Syria in violation of European Union sanctions. The United States says the tanker is controlled by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards, which it considers a terrorist group. "What's important here is that it is carrying oil that enables the terrorism of (President Bashar al-Assad's) regime," a State Department spokesperson said. The Trump administration has conveyed "our strong position via diplomatic channels to all ports in the Mediterranean that should be forewarned about facilitating" the tanker, said the spokesperson, who declined to be named. The US Treasury Department on Friday blacklisted the ship and sanctioned its captain. Washington last year pulled out of a nuclear deal with Iran aimed at blocking its path to a nuclear bomb, and has ramped up sanctions to pressure and isolate Tehran. Iran denies ever having sought to build or acquire a nuclear weapon. Cavusoglu told Reuters that Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan spoke about the ship's coordinates with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday. In a readout of the call, London said the leaders agreed it was vital to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon but did not mention the tanker. Options ahead Shipping sources said the tanker would need to conduct a ship-to-ship transfer before being able to enter a port such as Beirut's, which does not have deep water facilities necessary for fully laden supertankers. It could potentially discharge its cargo offshore towards Lebanon's Tripoli port further north, which is closer to Syria's coastline between Lebanon and Turkey, they said. There is a ship-to-ship transfer anchorage outside of Tripoli port limits. Beirut and Tripoli ports have both served as transhipment hubs for cargoes bound for Syria in recent years during Syria's conflict. An Iranian government spokesman was quoted on Monday as saying Iran had sold the oil aboard the tanker and that the vessel's owner, whose identity he did not disclose, would decide its destination. After its release at Gibraltar, the ship stated that its destination was the Greek port of Kalamata, then Turkey's Mersin. On Thursday, it abruptly changed course, heading first west then south, away from the Turkish coast. While west of Cyprus on Friday morning, it did a similar manouevre, doubling back on itself.

US says Iranian oil tanker headed towards Syria

Turkey remains committed to an agreement with the United States on its participation in the F-35 program, but if Washington refuses to deliver the fighter jets, Ankara will consider alternative options, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Friday.

On Tuesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attended the MAKS-2019 air show outside Moscow together with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He expressed interest in Su-35 and Su-57 fighters and this topic also emerged during his conversation with the Russian leader. On Friday, Erdogan said that Ankara and Moscow were conducting talks regarding the purchase of Su-57 fighters.

"We have never said that we are buying Russian aircraft, as we are a part of the F-35 program and still adhere to it. We want to buy the F-35 fighters, but if we cannot do this, we will look for alternatives. We do not exclude any options, it does not specifically have to be Russia," Cavusoglu said during his visit to Norway in a statement aired by the NTV broadcaster.

The United States announced in July its decision to suspend Turkey's participation in the F-35 international program over Ankara's purchase of Russian-made S-400 air defence systems, adding that the country would be completely removed from the project by late March 2020. Under the program, Turkey ordered more than 100 F-35 fighter jets.

The United States has claimed that the S-400 systems are incompatible with NATO's air defence weapons and may compromise the operations of the F-35 fighter jets.

Turkey remains committed to an agreement with the United States on its participation in the F-35 program, but if Washington refuses to deliver the fighter jets, Ankara will consider alternative options, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Friday.

Turkey remains committed to an agreement with the United States on its participation in the F-35 program, but if Washington refuses to deliver the fighter jets, Ankara will consider alternative options, Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Friday. On Tuesday, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attended the MAKS-2019 air show outside Moscow together with Russian President Vladimir Putin. He expressed interest in Su-35 and Su-57 fighters and this topic also emerged during his conversation with the Russian leader. On Friday, Erdogan said that Ankara and Moscow were conducting talks regarding the purchase of Su-57 fighters. "We have never said that we are buying Russian aircraft, as we are a part of the F-35 program and still adhere to it. We want to buy the F-35 fighters, but if we cannot do this, we will look for alternatives. We do not exclude any options, it does not specifically have to be Russia," Cavusoglu said during his visit to Norway in a statement aired by the NTV broadcaster. The United States announced in July its decision to suspend Turkey's participation in the F-35 international program over Ankara's purchase of Russian-made S-400 air defence systems, adding that the country would be completely removed from the project by late March 2020. Under the program, Turkey ordered more than 100 F-35 fighter jets. The United States has claimed that the S-400 systems are incompatible with NATO's air defence weapons and may compromise the operations of the F-35 fighter jets.

Turkey still committed to purchasing US F-35 fighters: Foreign minister

"At a certain point Russia, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Turkey, they're going to have to fight their battles," Trump told reporters at the White House, later saying India should also get involved. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Donald Trump slams India over Afghanistan

Riot&nbsp;police&nbsp;fired&nbsp;water&nbsp;cannon&nbsp;and tear gas to disperse&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;demonstrating in southeast <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/heavy-downpours-wreak-havoc-in-istanbul-flooding-historic-grand-bazaar-243705">Turkey</a> on Tuesday against the ousting of three&nbsp;Kurdishmayors five months after they were elected.

Ankara replaced the pro-Kurdish&nbsp;Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) mayors with state officials on Monday and detained more than 400 people for suspected militant links in a step sharply criticised by opposition parties.

In Diyarbakir, the region's biggest city,&nbsp;police&nbsp;repeatedly&nbsp;used&nbsp;water&nbsp;cannon&nbsp;on small groups of&nbsp;protesters, who huddled on the streets to protect themselves from the&nbsp;water cannon and made victory signs with their hands.

Riot&nbsp;police&nbsp;struck&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;with&nbsp;batons&nbsp;as they fled the area.

The&nbsp;protesters&nbsp;gathered near city hall, which was sealed off by metal barriers after a state administrator took office there on Monday in place of the elected mayor.

"You can see here today a regime of pressure and persecution," HDP leader Sezai Temelli told reporters in a statement on the street in Diyarbakir as the&nbsp;police&nbsp;acted against the protesters.

"We will continue to resist wherever we are because&nbsp;resistance is our legitimate right," he said.

The Interior Ministry says the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-removes-pro-kurdish-mayors-244033">ousted HDP mayors</a> of the three major cities - Diyarbakir, Mardin and Van - are accused of various crimes including membership of a terrorist organisation and spreading terrorist group propaganda.

The HDP said the mayors' removal was a political coup and that it is a hostile stance against the political will of the&nbsp;Kurdish&nbsp;people.

The ministry also said on Monday it had launched an operation with some 2,300 commandos against Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militants in three southeastern provinces.

President Tayyip Erdogan had warned before nationwide local elections in March of such a move against elected officials if they were found to have had connections to the PKK.

Erdogan frequently accuses the HDP of links to the PKK, which is designated a terrorist group by Turkey, the European Union and the United States. The HDP denies such links.

The removal of the mayors echoed the dismissal of dozens of mayors in 2016 over similar accusations, part of a purge that began after a failed coup.

Nearly 100 mayors and thousands of party members were jailed than in a crackdown that drew expressions of concern from the United States and European Union.

The PKK launched an insurgency against the&nbsp;Turkish&nbsp;state in 1984. More than 40,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

Riot police fired water cannon and tear gas to disperse protesters demonstrating in southeast Turkey on Tuesday against the ousting of three Kurdishmayors five months after they were elected.

Riot police fired water cannon and tear gas to disperse protesters demonstrating in southeast Turkey on Tuesday against the ousting of three Kurdishmayors five months after they were elected. Ankara replaced the pro-Kurdish Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP) mayors with state officials on Monday and detained more than 400 people for suspected militant links in a step sharply criticised by opposition parties. In Diyarbakir, the region's biggest city, police repeatedly used water cannon on small groups of protesters, who huddled on the streets to protect themselves from the water cannon and made victory signs with their hands. Riot police struck protesters with batons as they fled the area. The protesters gathered near city hall, which was sealed off by metal barriers after a state administrator took office there on Monday in place of the elected mayor. "You can see here today a regime of pressure and persecution," HDP leader Sezai Temelli told reporters in a statement on the street in Diyarbakir as the police acted against the protesters. "We will continue to resist wherever we are because resistance is our legitimate right," he said. The Interior Ministry says the ousted HDP mayors of the three major cities - Diyarbakir, Mardin and Van - are accused of various crimes including membership of a terrorist organisation and spreading terrorist group propaganda. The HDP said the mayors' removal was a political coup and that it is a hostile stance against the political will of the Kurdish people. The ministry also said on Monday it had launched an operation with some 2,300 commandos against Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militants in three southeastern provinces. President Tayyip Erdogan had warned before nationwide local elections in March of such a move against elected officials if they were found to have had connections to the PKK. Erdogan frequently accuses the HDP of links to the PKK, which is designated a terrorist group by Turkey, the European Union and the United States. The HDP denies such links. The removal of the mayors echoed the dismissal of dozens of mayors in 2016 over similar accusations, part of a purge that began after a failed coup. Nearly 100 mayors and thousands of party members were jailed than in a crackdown that drew expressions of concern from the United States and European Union. The PKK launched an insurgency against the Turkish state in 1984. More than 40,000 people have been killed in the conflict.

Turkish police use water cannon, batons on Kurdish protesters

Strong rains in Istanbul on Saturday flooded several neighbourhoods, as well as the Grand Bazaar, while officials said one person was found dead in the city.

The rain started early in the day in parts of Istanbul and picked up pace around noon.

Footage from parts of the Grand Bazaar showed shopkeepers, ankle-deep in water, clearing the water out of their stores and the halls. It also showed water pouring out of a hole in the wall into the bazaar, as well as a manhole left open to drain the flood.

A homeless man was found dead in the Unkapani area on the European side of the city due to the flood, the spokesman for the Istanbul municipality said on Twitter.

Several roads across Istanbul, including parts of the road on the shores of the Bakirkoy district and a section of one of the city's main highways, had also been submerged, Istanbul municipality's Disaster Coordination Centre (AKOM) said.

The rains also flooded an underpass where several shops are located in the Eminonu neighbourhood, it said. Footage on Turkish media showed hundreds of books and goods floating in the water as shopkeepers submerged up to their waists worked to clear the area.

AKOM said 114 kilograms of rain per square metre had fallen in the Fatih district, where the Grand Bazaar, as well as the Unkapani and Eminonu areas, are located.

Strong rains in Istanbul on Saturday flooded several neighbourhoods, as well as the Grand Bazaar, while officials said one person was found dead in the city. The rain started early in the day in parts of Istanbul and picked up pace around noon.

Strong rains in Istanbul on Saturday flooded several neighbourhoods, as well as the Grand Bazaar, while officials said one person was found dead in the city. The rain started early in the day in parts of Istanbul and picked up pace around noon. Footage from parts of the Grand Bazaar showed shopkeepers, ankle-deep in water, clearing the water out of their stores and the halls. It also showed water pouring out of a hole in the wall into the bazaar, as well as a manhole left open to drain the flood. A homeless man was found dead in the Unkapani area on the European side of the city due to the flood, the spokesman for the Istanbul municipality said on Twitter. Several roads across Istanbul, including parts of the road on the shores of the Bakirkoy district and a section of one of the city's main highways, had also been submerged, Istanbul municipality's Disaster Coordination Centre (AKOM) said. The rains also flooded an underpass where several shops are located in the Eminonu neighbourhood, it said. Footage on Turkish media showed hundreds of books and goods floating in the water as shopkeepers submerged up to their waists worked to clear the area. AKOM said 114 kilograms of rain per square metre had fallen in the Fatih district, where the Grand Bazaar, as well as the Unkapani and Eminonu areas, are located.

Heavy downpours wreak havoc in Istanbul, flooding historic Grand Bazaar

Fans in Instanbul predicted the result of Wednesday's (August 14) UEFA Super Cup game between Chelsea and Liverpool. The Super Cup is an annual match between the winners of the Champions League and the Europa League.

Fans predict how Super Cup will play out

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