Iraqi Turkmen Leader Denounces Lack Of Support

A leading Iraqi Turkmen figure has condemned Turkic nations for failing to support their fight against Daesh, saying only Turkey is offering help.



Ershad Salihi, the leader of the Iraqi Turkmen Front, told The Anadolu Agency that Turkey was providing humanitarian aid. Turkey is also training Turkmen troops in Iraq.



"We have received neither political nor economic support from other Turkic republics," he said on Monday during an interview in Istanbul.



He added:  "We, as nation, are proud. We don't beg anyone even though we die. But it should be known that your brothers die over there. They are unarmed and weak. Giving them a helping hand is your duty. Don't expect us to come to your doors."



Salihi did not specify which countries he was referring to but the Turkic nations are usually understood to include Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Turkey.



He also called for further military support.



Turkmen form Iraq's third largest ethnic group and mostly live in the northern provinces. Alongside other minority groups they have been specifically targeted by Daesh. In February, 450 were reported to have been kidnapped by the group, including women and children.



Salihi also predicted a gloomy future for Iraq once Daesh has been routed from the territory it seized in June last year.



"Conflict between provinces and tribes may show up," he said. "This terrorist organization's activities will set the nation at odds. If Iraqis do not take a stand based on logic and wisdom, more blood will be spilled."



"Regional countries must favor stability and give up sectarian schemes. Unless a secular system is formed everybody will be harmed."



www.aa.com.tr/en - Ankara