Turkish invasion of Afrin

1.2.2018

Question for written answer E-000606-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Kostas Chrysogonos (GUE/NGL)

On 19 January 2018, Turkey initiated a military offensive codenamed ‘Operation Olive Branch’ in the Afrin region of Northern Syria, using weapons imported from EU Member States[1]. This ruthless attack by the Turkish armed forces has already claimed the lives of many combatants and civilians (including refugees from conflict zones in Syria)[2], left many wounded and forcibly driven over 5 000 of the local populace from their homes[3]. Such an unprovoked incursion onto foreign soil places Turkey in direct breach of international law and its commitments as an applicant for EU membership[4]. Concerns are also being expressed that it will further destabilise an already precarious situation in the Middle East[5].

In view of this:

• 1.Can the Commission state its position regarding the Turkish invasion and the use of weapons purchased from EU Member States?
• 2.What measures is it envisaging for the protection of human rights in this region?

• [1] http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-42795943
• [2] http://syrianobserver.com/EN/News/33772/Most_Victims_Olive_Branch_Are_Displaced_People_Afrin_Hospitalhttp://www.kurdishinstitute.be/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/Afrin-File-1-12.pdf
• [3] http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/afrin-turkey-invasion-syria-enclave-kurds-ypg-airstrike-war-civil-a8182266.html· http://www.kathimerini.gr/944800/article/epikairothta/kosmos/ohe-stoys-5000-oi-ektopismenoi-meta-tis-epi8eseis-sto-afrin
• [4] http://english.ajansfirat.com/anf-news-news/iadl-afrin-operation-is-a-violation-of-international-law
• [5] http://www.middleeasteye.net/news/turkey-has-begun-de-factor-ground-operation-afrin-says-erdogan-534789236