The deadly Syrian shelling attack struck buildings in Akcakale, Turkey. They were fired from Tall al-Abyad by Syrian forces, this is the second time Syrian artillery fire has gone over the country's volatile border with Turkey and represents the first instance of Turkish nationals being slain by such cross border fire (reports
the NZ Herald).
Turkish artillery was fired in retaliation in what a statement from the government said was targeting "points in Syria that were detected with radar, in line with the rules of engagement." It added that "Turkey will never leave unanswered such provocations by the Syrian regime targeting our national security, in line with engagement rules and international law."
The United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stated that the U.S. is "outraged that the Syrians have been shooting across the border. We are very regretful about the loss of life on the Turkish side." Mrs. Clinton also stated that she would be talking with Turkey's Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu regarding "what the best way forward would be."
Among the dead on the attack on Akcakale are believed to be a woman and her three children.
NATO -- of which Turkey is a member -- is due to convene tomorrow to discuss these latest developments. A spokesperson for the alliance was quoted as saying that they are following events on the ground in the two countries "closely and with great concern."
The mayor of Akcakale, Abdulhakim Ayhan, was quoted in
BBC's report saying that, "There is anger in our community against Syria."
