The head of the international peacekeeping force in Afghanistan states that the onset of a U.S.-led war with Iraq may provoke terrorists to intensify their attacks against foreigners. Hilmi Akin Zorlu, a Turkish general commanding the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, told reporters today that supporters of Iraq may target all foreigners in Afghanistan, including military personnel, aid workers, and businessmen. He mentioned that international peacekeepers are currently enhancing their intelligence-gathering efforts to prevent terrorist attacks in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan, and that security measures will be increased if a war with Iraq breaks out. However, he stated that there is currently no necessity to increase the number of peacekeepers beyond the current level of 4,300 or to expand their mission beyond Kabul.
Turkish General: War with Iraq May Incite Terrorists - 2003-01-06
Turkish General Hilmi Akin Zorlu warns that a U.S.-led war with Iraq could provoke terrorist attacks against foreigners in Afghanistan. He emphasizes that peacekeepers are ramping up intelligence efforts to prevent such attacks but sees no need to increase troop numbers or expand their mission at this time.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
Turkish General Hilmi Akin Zorlu warned that a U.S.-led war with Iraq could lead to increased terrorist attacks against foreigners in Afghanistan. He noted that peacekeepers are enhancing intelligence efforts to mitigate these threats.
- Zorlu emphasized the need for heightened intelligence-gathering efforts in Kabul.
- He stated that there is currently no need to increase the number of peacekeepers in Afghanistan.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
The U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003 was part of a broader strategy to reshape the Middle East, which raised concerns about regional stability and terrorism.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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Translation confidence: 85%