Ankara Refuses to Send Troops as Combat Force

Ankara remains undecided about contributing to the international force to be stationed in southern Lebanon in accordance with the U.N. Security Council's decision. The U.N. announced that Turkey expressed a willingness to join the force while Ankara has said that even if they deploy soldiers, they will not engage in combat.

Washington wants Turkey to be quick to deploying troops to Lebanon for strategic and technical reasons. U.S. government officials have expressed sympathy to Ankara's conditions but would like Turkey to join the force as soon as possible.

Officials said a second U.N. draft in this context would be "difficult."

Spokesman for the Foreign Ministry Namik Tan declared Turkey has not yet decided to join "the peace force" in southern Lebanon, adding, "If Turkey determines to send a force, it will never be a combat force."

Tan reported FM Gul will pay a visit to Israel on Sunday for this purpose. Turkey struggles to contribute to the process of creating a force that will be agreed upon by all parties. Tan disclosed: "It will neither be a combat force nor participate in any activities to disarm groups in the region. This force will be stationed in the region only for the purpose of maintaining peace and providing humanitarian assistance and logistic structure."

The U.S. Favors Turkey's Participation

U.S. government officials understand Ankara's concerns but would like Turkish troops be deployed to the region at once. A U.S. Foreign Affairs official, speaking to Zaman, said sending troops to Lebanon will be a decision the Turkish government will have to make.

However, the same official added, "We would be pleased to see Turkish forces taking a part." U.S. officials realizing Ankara's "serious concerns" recorded they have not yet received the second demand of the U.N. decision. Another official said: "If for example a country is not ready to deploy soldiers in the upcoming week, there might still be a need in the future. We cannot ignore the possibility of Turkey's participation."

According to Washington, Turkey's immediate military transition into Lebanon due to its "geographical closeness" would provide an advantage to compensate for lost time. Meanwhile, U.S officials are examining Turkey's preconditions.

Turkey has an experienced and successful army in combat and is familiar with the region. It is geographically unique and has dialogue with the related parties, including Israel. Washington assumes that the participation of countries with a mostly Muslim population, such as Turkey, in the international force will provide greater credibility and strategic importance.