ISTANBUL, Oct 9 (KUNA) -- Turkey decided on Friday to opt out of air force maneuvers in which military aircraft from Israel, the US, Italy, and NATO will be taking part, local media reported.
This decision to quit "Anatolian Eagle" coincides with Israeli attacks and violations against the Aqsa Mosque and Al-Quds (Jerusalem).
Turkey did not officially state the reason behind the decision to cancel participation in the drills planned for October 12-24. However, the announcement was received most favorably by the public after several demands that the government ban Israeli planes which bombard Palestinian territories from flying in Anatolian airspace.
The maneuvers were scheduled to take place at Konya air base, in the heart of Turkey.
Israel participated in the joint military training 15 times with 10 aircraft at a time, virtue of a treaty ratified between Turkey and Israel in 1996.(end) ta.aia KUNA 091200 Oct 09NNNN