Turkey Restricts Border Crossings with Iran, Denies Attack on U.S. Base

Alanbatnews -

Turkey has temporarily closed three border crossings with Iran to daily passenger traffic while maintaining trade under specific conditions, according to Trade Minister Omer Bolat. The move follows recent regional developments with global implications, prompting a comprehensive assessment of the situation at the Turkish-Iranian border crossings.

Bolat stated that while the movement of goods will continue under certain stipulations, daily passenger crossings have been suspended at the Agri-Gurbulak, Van-Kapikoy, and Hakkari-Esendere border points. However, Iran is still permitting its citizens to enter through Turkey, and Turkey is allowing its citizens and other nationals to enter from Iran.

The Trade Minister emphasized that border crossings are operating smoothly and efficiently in coordination with relevant administrative authorities and the Iranian side. The goal is to ensure the uninterrupted flow of border services and trade.

Separately, Turkey's Center for Combating Disinformation refuted claims circulating on social media regarding the removal of 80,000 landmines along the Turkish-Iranian border. The center clarified that the demining operations are planned activities carried out within the scope of international obligations and are intended to enhance border security through modern security systems.

The center affirmed that Turkey's borders are secured around the clock through advanced surveillance systems, drones, and multi-layered security personnel. They urged the public to disregard misleading information.

In related news, the Center for Combating Disinformation also denied allegations of an attack on a U.S. military base in Turkey, stating that no foreign military bases exist within Turkish territory. This denial followed claims on social media that Iran had attacked Incirlik Air Base, which is managed by Turkey and hosts thousands of U.S. troops.

Incirlik Air Base, located in Adana, is a crucial logistical and military hub for U.S. and NATO operations in the Middle East. It has played a strategic role since the Cold War and in subsequent regional conflicts.

The Center for Combating Disinformation reiterated that Turkey's airspace, land, and sea, as well as its military facilities, are under its full sovereignty and control. It dismissed any attempts to portray Turkey as a party to regional conflicts as disinformation.

Meanwhile, Turkish authorities have detained four individuals, including three journalists and a municipality employee, in connection with an investigation into a live broadcast from Incirlik Air Base. They are accused of endangering national security by publishing images of military installations and security arrangements.

The news agency Anka, whose editor-in-chief was among those detained, removed the broadcast following warnings from the Center for Combating Disinformation. Anka stated that the broadcast was intended to inform the public as a journalistic duty but was misunderstood.

The Center for Combating Disinformation also refuted claims that Turkey supports attacks on Iran, emphasizing that Turkey will not allow its air, land, or sea elements, including its airspace, to be used for operations in any conflict in which it is not a party. All activities related to sovereign Turkish territory are conducted under the supervision and control of the relevant authorities.